Heat wave in Spain: These are the potential health risks and how to avoid them.

The arrival of a heat wave in Spain this weekend, the first of this summer, will leave extreme temperatures of up to 44 degrees Celsius in several parts of the country. The episode is expected to last until Tuesday, with a peak on Sunday and Monday.

The State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) is expected to activate extreme heat alerts in most of the southern regions (Andalusia, Castilla-La Mancha, Madrid, Extremadura and Murcia) and the northeast of the peninsula (Aragon and Catalonia), the areas expected to be most affected by the heat wave.

Possible risks of heat waves

As explained by the World Health Organization (WHO), the specific risks of thermal events depend on their duration, intensity, timing, the level of acclimatization and adaptation of the local population, the infrastructure, knowledge, and equipment available, preparations, and institutional response.

In general terms, the incidence of health problems associated with exposure to high temperatures increases, such as edema (fluid accumulation), syncope (fainting), muscle cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, which can be fatal. In addition, severe dehydration, strokes, and other events related to blood clotting can occur. According to the agency, most deaths are due to worsening cardiopulmonary, renal, or psychiatric conditions.

With this in mind, it is vital that institutions prepare to respond appropriately to the risks posed by heat waves. To this end, citizens must be properly informed about weather conditions, available resources for prevention and emergency response, and individual preventive measures.

Measures to prevent the most serious problems

Specifically, individual health plays a fundamental role in preventing the worst health consequences of heat waves. Without neglecting the public health implications of these types of weather events, there are several methods to protect our health from high temperatures.

Thus, it's vital to maintain hydration (which is often the cause of some of the most serious health consequences of heat) by drinking plenty of fluids and water. Similarly, we must adapt our behavior to the weather conditions, avoiding strenuous activities or going outdoors during the hottest hours of the day.

Likewise, it is important to ensure that work and other activities are carried out in adequately air-conditioned environments. If severe symptoms appear (dizziness, severe pain, cardiovascular symptoms, respiratory problems, high fever, uncontrollable vomiting), it is vital to seek immediate medical attention.

References

PAHO/WHO. Heat Waves. Accessed online at https://www.paho.org/es/campanas/olas-calor-salud on June 6, 2024.

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