«For years now, in the summer we have been receiving calls from our patients for heat stroke and other problems related to rising temperatures, but we have never had to deal with heat like that forecasted in recent days.
We are very concerned about the effects that the forecasted maximums, with temperatures perceived to be close to 40, could have. Not only the elderly, but everyone, should avoid going out during the hottest hours as much as possible and, in any case, facing long stretches in the sun"
. It's a real one hot alarm the one launched by Luigi Sparano and Corrado Calamaro (family doctors of Fimmg) in the face of the arrival of Minos, an anticyclone that is about to overwhelm Italy with record temperatures across almost all of the North, Centre and South.
In light of the weather forecast that predicts an unprecedented heat wave, the family doctors of the Fimmg launch an appeal to the population, in particular the elderly and frail, to adopt precautionary measures to protect themselves and avoid having to resort to the emergency room.
“The great heat can represent a serious danger, especially for those who suffer from chronic diseases or have a compromised immune system,” Sparano and Calamaro clarify.
Family doctors have also developed a decalogue of practical advice to help the most vulnerable people better manage days of intense heat:
* Stay hydrated: Drink at least 1,5-2 liters of water a day, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid alcoholic, sugary, or carbonated beverages.
* Avoid the hottest hours: Don't go out or do any physical activity during the hottest hours of the day, usually between 11:00 am and 17:00 pm.
* Wear light clothing: Use light, light-colored clothing made of natural fabrics such as cotton and linen, which allow the skin to breathe better.
* Prefer cool environments: Spend as much time as possible in cool and ventilated environments. If necessary, use fans or air conditioners, making sure not to exaggerate the temperature difference compared to the outside.
* Light diet: Eat light meals, rich in fruit and vegetables, avoiding heavy and highly seasoned foods that increase the sensation of heat.
* Cool down regularly: Take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature. Alternatively, use damp cloths on your wrists, forehead and neck.
* Monitor your health: Watch for signs of dehydration or heat stroke, such as headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, or muscle cramps. If you have any suspicious symptoms, contact a doctor immediately.
* Avoid direct exposure to the sun: Use wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and sunscreen with a high protection factor when you have to go out.
* Plan activities: Organize daily activities to avoid the hottest hours and favor the early morning or evening hours.
* Assist the most vulnerable: Regularly check the health conditions of family members, friends or neighbors elderly or fragile people who live alone.
Simple but fundamental advice to safely face the next few weeks of intense heat. "It is important that every citizen does their part to protect their health and that of their loved ones," conclude the family doctors.
Article published on 18 June 2024 - 12:02
