Three major health problems are related to hot weather. The most common effect of excessive heat is dehydration, or the loss of salt and electrolytes in the body. Dehydration is easily and effectively remedied by limiting exposure to the sun and increasing intake of fluids, especially water.
The second phase includes cramps and sunstroke, where the veins and arteries dilate and insufficient blood circulates to the brain. The easiest way to alleviate sunstroke is to lie down and elevate the legs.
The third, and sometimes fatal, phase of overexposure to the sun is heatstroke, which often occurs when the first two stages go untreated. Heatstroke occurs when the body’s temperature rises above 41 to 42 degrees Celsius (105.8 to 107.6 degrees Fahrenheit). Cardiac and respiratory failure may result within minutes after the first indications of heatstroke. An early warning sign is dizziness and disorientation. If you believe you are suffering from heatstroke seek medical attention immediately.
Other than children and the elderly, the obese and people with certain illnesses such as diabetes and Parkinson’s disease are more susceptible to heat-related problems. Doctors also believe that uncomfortable conditions caused by excessive heat can lead to lack of sleep and general irritability.
Additionally, the incidence of food-related illnesses increases by 70 percent during the hottest months of the year, as meats, cheeses and vegetables spoil more rapidly.
Residents of the Guadalajara metropolitan area should be especially cautious in April and May as pollution, traffic and stagnant air currents augment health problems. It is estimated that 70 percent of the heat produced by fuel-burning vehicles and machines enters the atmosphere directly. For this reason, temperatures in urban areas are typically four to seven percent higher than in rural areas.
Jalisco Health Department tips for beating the heat
- Avoid direct exposure to the sun.
- The use of blinds or curtains in the home will reduce the heat inside by up to 80 percent.
- Do not use fans that only circulate hot air and do not cool air temperature.
- Consume fresh food. Drink water, juice in abundance.
- Do not exercise during the hottest parts of the day but rather in the early morning or late evening.
- Dress in lightweight clothing of light colors.