MEDICAL RISKS OF EXTREME HEAT

By Dr Peter Onoja

  Extreme heat is not just uncomfortable—it can be deadly. During periods of high temperatures, the human body struggles to regulate internal heat, leading to serious health complications.


Common medical risks include:


Heat exhaustion: weakness, dizziness, nausea, and heavy sweating.


Heatstroke: a life-threatening condition with confusion, high body temperature, and unconsciousness.


Dehydration: dry mouth, dark urine, and low energy.


Heat cramps and rashes: painful muscle spasms and skin irritations.


Worsening of chronic diseases like heart, kidney, and respiratory conditions.


Mental confusion and increased psychological stress, especially in older adults.



WHO IS AT HIGH RISK


While heat affects everyone, certain groups are more vulnerable:


Infants and young children


Elderly people, especially those over 65


Pregnant women


People with chronic illnesses (diabetes, asthma, heart disease)


Outdoor workers (farmers, road workers, artisans)


People on certain medications (diuretics, antihypertensives)


Low-income families without access to fans, cooling, or clean water



 SIGNS OF HEAT EMERGENCY


Be alert to these warning signs:


Hot, dry skin or heavy sweating


Fast, strong pulse


Headache or dizziness


Confusion, slurred speech, or fainting


Muscle cramps


Nausea or vomiting


Sudden fatigue or weakness



In severe cases, the person may collapse or become unresponsive. This is a medical emergency—take immediate action.



HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF


To stay safe during extreme heat:


✅ Drink plenty of water regularly, not just when you're thirsty

✅ Wear loose, light-colored clothing

✅ Avoid outdoor activities between 11 am and 4 pm

✅ Use fans, open windows, or stay in cool/shaded areas

✅ Do not leave children or elderly in parked cars

✅ Take cool baths or use wet cloths on your body

✅ Monitor your blood pressure and sugar levels if you have chronic illness

✅ Check on elderly neighbors or sick relatives regularly


ELITECARE SERVICES DURING THIS PERIOD


At Elitecare Clinic and Maternity, we are fully prepared to respond to heat-related health issues.


🧑‍⚕️ Free temperature and blood pressure checks daily

💧 Hydration therapy for patients with heat exhaustion

🏥 Emergency care for heatstroke and dehydration

🤰 Special care for pregnant women and infants during hot days

📚 Health education and counselling for the community

📞 24/7 consultation for urgent medical issues


Your health is our priority. Don't wait until it's too late.


📣 CALL TO ACTION


🔥 The heat is real, but it doesn’t have to harm you.

🏥 Visit Elitecare Clinic and Maternity today.

📞 Call/WhatsApp us at +234 905 552 0428

🌐 www.elitecareservice.site


✅ Stay cool. Stay safe. Stay alive.

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