Metro residents advised to take measures vs heatstroke

MANILA, Philippines - People in Metro Manila are advised to take precautionary measures against heatstroke after the hottest temperature was recorded last Saturday.

In an advisory on Facebook, the Department of Health (DOH) said that heatstroke must be treated as a medical emergency as it could lead to death if not attended to properly and on time.

“Heatstroke is the most severe form of heat illness when the body overheats and cannot cool down,” the DOH said.

“The body cannot take off the excessive heat by sweating because of dehydration and/or humid environment.” 

The DOH said a person suffering from heatstroke must be taken to hospital “after instituting emergency measures.

“During very hot and humid weather, limit the amount of time you spend outdoors; drink plenty of water; avoid tea, coffee, soda and alcohol; wear a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved clothing when outdoors, and schedule heavy-duty activities for the beginning or end of day, when it’s cooler,” the DOH said.

The DOH said heatstroke usually starts with signs of heat exhaustion. Signs and symptoms include warm, flushed skin; dizziness; weakness; very high fever of 41 degrees Celsius; headache; rapid heartbeat; convulsion and unconsciousness, the DOH added.

Heatstroke could develop due to dehydration; hot and  humid weather; vigorous exercise in hot weather; too much direct exposure to the sun and working outdoors.

The following are emergency measures applied on a person suffering from heatstroke:

• Move him or her to a shady spot or indoors; have him lie down with legs elevated;

• If able to drink liquids, have him or her sip cool water;

• Remove clothing, apply cool water to the skin, and fan the person; and

• Apply ice packs to the armpits, wrists, ankles and groin.

Last Saturday, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) registered the highest temperature in Metro Manila for the year.

The temperature measured 36.7 degrees Celsius on Saturday afternoon, surpassing the 36.6 degrees Celsius recorded last May 19.