Acıbadem Kozyatağı Hospital Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Meltem Batmacı “Extreme heat; By making undesirable changes in fluid and mineral balance, it can cause many complaints from concentration disorder to headache and dizziness, from palpitation to fatigue and difficulty in breathing. For this reason, it is very important to take great care to protect from extreme heat and sun rays, and to take some precautions to protect healthy and keep the body cool. says.
9 TIPS FOR COOLING THE BODY IN EXTREME HEATS!
Dr. Meltem Batmacı talked about 9 ways to cool the body in a healthy way in the summer, and gave important warnings and suggestions.
DO NOT GO OUT AT THIS TIME
Although extreme heat affects almost everyone, especially the elderly, those with chronic diseases, pregnant women, children and babies are at greater risk. For this reason, it is of great importance that people in the risk group do not go outside, especially between 11:00 and 16:00 when the sun is very intense and steep. If possible, the environment should be constantly ventilated with fresh air, and blinds, curtains and blinds should be kept closed to protect from the sun.
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN USING THE AIR CONDITIONER
The correct use of the air conditioner, which comes to the rescue in the sweltering heat of the summer months and is seen as a savior, is very important. Avoiding direct exposure to the air conditioner, not overcooling the environment, not turning on the cold suddenly when the body temperature is high, and having the air conditioner cleaned regularly play a critical role in preventing possible infections. Otherwise, some summer diseases, especially upper respiratory tract infections caused by unconscious air conditioning use, are very common.
USE Plenty of LIQUID
Since fluid losses will increase with sweating and evaporation in summer, it is necessary to take care of plenty of fluid intake and replace the lost fluid by drinking water mostly. In summer, drink about 2.5-3 liters of water every day. Do not make such a mistake as alcoholic beverages, tea, coffee, etc., will not replace water, on the contrary, they will increase fluid loss. Avoid very cold and icy drinks. Since salt loss will increase with sweating, it is also beneficial to consume a glass of mineral water.
STAY AWAY FROM FOODS THAT INCREASE BODY TEMPERATURE
Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Stating that nutrition plays a critical role in extreme heat, Meltem Batmacı says: “Light and juicy meals should be consumed especially in summer heat. Oily, spicy/sugar foods should be avoided during the summer period. Portion control at meals is important. The body needs water to burn every calorie we take. Every calorie taken in excess disrupts the body fluid balance and causes weight gain. In particular, the body has difficulty in digesting fatty, spicy and sugary foods.”
PROTECT FROM THE SUN WHILE GOING OUT
Take care to wear thin, light-colored and loose-fitting clothes when going out. By the charm of the dress; Do not wear dark clothing, such as black, that is made of fabric that can make you sweat or that absorbs the sun’s rays. Choose fabrics that will not make you sweat and protect you from the sun’s rays. Avoid wearing layers as this will conserve heat in the body. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses to protect from UV rays, and sunscreen cream. Especially for those with moles or skin diseases and fair-skinned people, protection from the sun plays a much more critical role.
AVOID HEAVY SPORTS
In the hot summer months, it is necessary to stay away from sports and activities that will require high effort. Avoid inactivity by doing light exercises, swimming, or walking during the hours when the sun’s rays are not upright. Prefer evening hours for sports or jobs that require intense physical activity. After physical activities and sports, be careful not to leave your body dehydrated and mineral-free, and to drink water.
COOL YOUR BODY WITH COLD WATER
Take frequent showers with lukewarm water. If it is not possible, wash your hands, feet, face and neck with cold water frequently during the day.
PAY ATTENTION INSIDE THE VEHICLE
Dr. Meltem Batmacı said, “We must be very careful not to leave any living things in closed, open or parked vehicles. “The temperature inside the vehicle rises very seriously shortly after parking and is life-threatening,” he says.
DON’T MAKE THIS MISTAKE IN A SUN SHOCK
Due to the extreme heat and the scorching sun, sunstroke is very common. Sun stroke; weakness, nausea, vision changes, headache, dizziness, feeling unwell, etc. presents with symptoms. In case of sunstroke, it is imperative that the person is immediately taken to a cool, airy and shaded environment, loosening his clothes, trying to cool him down, and taking him to the nearest health institution if he is unconscious or has fluctuating consciousness. In case of unconsciousness, it is absolutely necessary not to try to drink water.