Stating that the loss of fluid in the body due to extreme heat can lead to fatal consequences on chronic patients and elderly individuals, Internal Medicine and Geriatrics Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Olgun Deniz underlined that at least 2 and a half liters of water should be consumed daily.
Internal Medicine and Geriatrics Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Olgun Deniz, who works at Bursa City Hospital, made statements about the negative effects of extreme heat on chronic patients and the elderly and ways of protection. Stating that the health of individuals can be negatively affected as a result of Turkey's hot summer and the increase in humidity, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Deniz noted that citizens over the age of 65 and citizens with chronic diseases are among the groups most affected by extreme heat.
Emphasizing that in order to be protected from extreme heat, one should not go out at noon when the sun's rays come at the steepest angle, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Deniz said, “In addition, one should not enter the sea at these hours. When outdoors, light-colored light and wide clothes should be preferred, thick-brimmed hats with air holes should be worn, sunglasses and sunscreen should be used to protect from the harmful rays of the sun. Morning and evening hours should be preferred for intense physical activity and sports. Heavy physical activity should be avoided.”
Drink at least 2 and a half liters of liquid a day
Informing that hot weather causes an unrecognizable loss of fluid in human skin, Deniz said, “This fluid loss can lead to fatal consequences in elderly individuals. For this reason, unless fluid restriction is specified by your doctor and even if there is no feeling of thirst, at least 2 and a half liters, ie 12 - 14 cups of liquid should be consumed daily. Although it is essential to drink water, milk, ayran and fruit juice should be preferred instead of tea, coffee and carbonated drinks. Alcohol, caffeine and drinks containing large amounts of sugar should be avoided as they can cause excessive fluid excretion from the body. In addition, very cold and icy drinks should not be preferred as they may cause stomach discomfort.”
Beware of heat stroke!
Pointing out that heat stroke is one of the most common health problems in these periods when air temperatures increase, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Deniz continued his words as follows:
“Heatstroke, which can cause significant and dangerous problems, can manifest itself as high fever up to 41 degrees Celsius, weakness, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, increased pulse rate. If you have one or more of these conditions, we strongly recommend that you contact the nearest health institution. Neurological disorders that can lead to coma can also be seen in heat stroke, which affects the elderly, those with chronic diseases and those with fair skin more. Adults and the elderly at risk should be under close observation for heat stroke at least 2 times a day.”
