As the heat strikes

CEBU, Philippines - Westerners envy those living in the tropics. The envy roots in the ubiquitous image of "sun, sea, and sand." It's really the sun - which is primarily the factor that makes it possible to enjoy the sea and sand.

But those living in a tropical country, like the Philippines, know better. They learn from experience that the sunny climate is a double-edged sword. In fact, given the global warming and the increasingly scorching days - in summer particularly - it's quite risky living here.

While the summer breeze is perfect for outdoor escapades, the prolonged, extreme heat wave can bring on real threats to one's health. These days the ambient temperatures begin to soar as soon as the summer season kicks in. Here in the country, the effects of the still looming El Niño have already been felt in certain areas, destroying vast crop fields. The situation is likely to worsen in the months to come.

The Department of Health (DOH), for its part, has intensified warning against the common summer diseases like skin diseases, sunburn, sore eyes, stomachaches, flu, rabies, and heatstroke, the "most severe form of heat-related illness" which the DOH has long considered as a "medical emergency."

DOH officials say that heatstroke is not something to be just shrugged off. It is a serious medical condition that necessitates serious attention. News of the death of a female Special Action Force trainee weeks ago and the series of other heat-related deaths that followed, point to heatstroke as an alarming menace, given the rising mortality rate.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines heatstroke as a medical condition that "occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature - body temperature rises rapidly, the body loses its ability to sweat, and it is unable to cool down." Simply put, people suffer heatstroke due to constant heat exposure causing the body to overheat to more than 37 degree Celsius.

Moreover, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, or PAGASA, has cautioned the public against prolonged sun exposure that could lead to heatstroke.

Among the common symptoms of heatstroke are throbbing headache, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, flushed skin or redness, nausea, vomiting, excessive sweating, and dizziness. The condition is most likely to occur in older people who live in homes lacking in proper air ventilation. Other high-risk groups are people of any age without enough water intake, those suffering from chronic diseases or drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, says www.webmd.com. Also, even the healthiest pet dog in the household is not exempt from heat stroke.

But the good news is that heatstroke can be prevented. The website www.mayoclinic.org lists some steps on how to prevent heatstroke during hot weather:

Wear loose fitting, lightweight clothing. Wearing excess clothing or clothing that fits tightly won't allow the body to cool properly.

Protect against sunburn. Sunburn affects the body's ability to cool itself. When outdoors, protect oneself with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and also use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Apply sunscreen generously, and reapply every two hours or more often if swimming or sweating.

Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated will help the body sweat and maintain a normal body temperature. Especially during summer, it is very important to maintain body electrolyte and fluid levels by drinking plenty of water or liquids like lemonade before stepping out in the heat.

Take extra precautions with certain medications. Be on the lookout for heat-related problems if taking medications that can affect the body's ability to stay hydrated and dissipate heat.

Never leave anyone in a parked car. This is a common cause of heat-related deaths in children. When parked in the sun, the temperature in the car can rise to more than 6.7 degrees Celsius in 10 minutes. It's not safe to leave a person in a parked car in warm or hot weather, even if the windows are cracked or the car is in shade. When the car is parked, keep it locked to prevent a child from getting inside.

Take it easy during the hottest parts of the day. If you can't avoid strenuous activity in hot weather, drink fluids and rest frequently in a cool spot. Try to schedule exercise or physical labor for cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening.

Get acclimated. Limit time spent working or exercising in heat until one's body is conditioned to it. People who are not used to hot weather are especially susceptible to heat-related illness. It can take several weeks for the body to adjust to hot weather.

Be cautious. If taking medications or having a condition that increases the risk of heat-related problems, avoid the heat and act quickly if symptoms of overheating are noticed. If participating in a strenuous sporting event or activity in hot weather, make sure there are medical services available in case of a heat emergency.

Upon noticing heatstroke symptoms, it is recommended to perform first-aid measures. It is crucial that one takes the necessary precautions to stay safe and healthy during this very humid period. (FREEMAN)