As Extreme Heat Increases Here’s What you Need to Know to Stay Cool and Healthy

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As extreme heat records continue to rise so is its impact on health. The Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change, 2023 revealed that people on average experienced 50 additional days of health-threatening temperatures compared to previous years resulting in record heat-related deaths. It also determined that people faced an average of 1,512 hours of high temperatures posing a moderate risk of heat stress, a 27.7% increase from 1990-1999 averages. These conditions not only jeopardize individual health but also strain healthcare systems already burdened by other crises. 

As temps continue to rise it is important to protect yourself during extreme heat. Here are some strategies from the Red Cross to consider: 

  • Know the Sun: Avoid outdoor activities during peak hours. If outside, wear sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat, and take breaks in the shade. 
  • Get Wet: Cool your skin by wetting a t-shirt, using cooling sprays, or taking cool showers. 
  • Drink Up: Stay hydrated with water. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can lead to dehydration. Isotonic sports drinks can help replenish lost fluids and salts. 
  • Eat Light: Choose meals high in water content, such as fruits and vegetables like cucumbers and strawberries. Soups can also aid hydration. 
  • Be Active When It’s Cool: Exercise during early mornings or late evenings to avoid heat stress, and always stay hydrated. 

The intense heat doesn’t just create immediate health risks it also creates great breeding grounds for diseases. Since 2024, over 13 million dengue cases and more than 8,500 related deaths have been reported globally, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. Let’s look at  Dengue fever, which is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. The mosquito’s proliferation and extended lifespan due to warm weather have significantly contributed to the surge in dengue cases.  

Monitoring your body temperature regularly can help you track your health status, monitor for fevers, and prompt you to seek medical attention. The Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer is non-invasive, easy-to-use, and accurate, making it suitable for all ages. By staying informed and proactive, you can reduce heat-related health issues. As extreme heat becomes more of the norm, our self-care actions are crucial for safeguarding our well-being. 

Sources:     

  • Axios, https://www.axios.com/2024/10/30/climate-change-heat-health-effects?stream=top  
  • European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/dengue-monthly  
  • Red Cross UK, https://www.redcross.org.uk/stories/health-and-social-care/first-aid/beat-the-hot-weather-top-tips-for-staying-cool   
  • The Lancet, https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(24)01822-1/ 

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