Forecasters are predicting heat in the coming days - in some parts of Lithuania, the temperature columns may jump up to 29-34 degrees. Specialists of the National Public Health Center (NVSC) warn that one of the biggest dangers on hot days is heat stroke.
When the body's temperature regulation system malfunctions due to excessive heat, a person does not sweat enough, his body temperature becomes dangerously high, and a person suffers heat stroke.
According to the NVSC, one of the symptoms of heat stroke is dry, hot, or blotchy (due to poor sweating) skin.
"When touching the human body, it is felt that it is obviously hot (the body temperature can rise to more than 40°C), the person finds it difficult to orient himself in the environment, may become delirious and lose consciousness completely or partially," say the center's specialists.
A person affected by heatstroke has an increased pulse rate and a strong pulse, a very strong headache and dizziness, nausea, and vomiting may occur.
NVSC specialists warn that if you notice symptoms typical of heat stroke, it is necessary to call an ambulance without delay. Until the medics arrive, the victim should be moved to the shade, sprayed or doused with lukewarm water or wrapped in a lukewarm wet cloth. If the person is conscious, it is important to restore lost body fluids as soon as possible (give him to drink cool water or tea).
Water is refreshing, but let's be vigilant
Staying in the sun for a long time, working hard or playing sports on a hot day, as well as staying in a hot environment (indoors, car) for a long time can lead to the risk of overheating. Everyone suffers from a sharp increase in air temperature, but it is especially difficult for young children whose thermoregulation is not well developed, as well as for other persons whose thermoregulation is impaired due to illness or other reasons, NVSC specialists note.
"In the case of extremely high temperatures, it is advised not to do physical work outside, it is better to do it early in the morning or to postpone it until later in the evening, to limit sports or other physical activities outside. On a hot day, children should not be left alone in the car even for a short time," NVSC specialists advise.
They also warn that on hot days, we should be extremely careful when spending time near water bodies. Immersion in cold water of any temperature becomes dangerous if the body is not prepared for it.
"When a heated body enters cold water, 'cold shock' can cause changes in breathing, heart rate and blood pressure, shortness of breath and rapid breathing can occur, the ability to think and act is impaired, and this puts even good swimmers at risk of drowning," warns NVSC.
According to the World Health Organization, there are more drownings and water-related injuries worldwide during hot weather. One of the reasons is bathing under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
It is recommended to drink more fluids on hot days
NVSC specialists advise to drink more fluids and eat more fruits and vegetables on hot summer days.
It is also recommended to cool the body with a lukewarm shower or bath, take water to drink and splash yourself when going outside.
"Spend more time in cooler, air-conditioned rooms. During the heat, limit physical activity," the center's specialists advise.
It is advised not to leave children and animals in closed cars - even if all the windows are open. When going outside, it is recommended to wear a head covering, to dress in loose, natural material, light clothes that reflect the heat and light of the sun well.
"Apply sunscreen to exposed areas of the body and lips (apply 30 minutes before going out into the open sun), wear sunglasses," experts add.
When using air conditioning systems, be aware that a very large temperature difference between the ambient air temperature and the air temperature in the room can cause colds. The recommendations specified in the technical documentation of the air conditioning system should be followed.
Cold liquids should also be avoided as the cold can cause stomach cramps.
