Question and Answer
Heatwaves place increasing strain on the body, and their effects extend beyond mere discomfort; they can lead to dehydration, exhaustion, and health disturbances that persist even after temperatures drop. Doctors emphasize that early recognition of heat stress symptoms and preventive measures are among the most important ways to avoid complications.
New data from the Healthwords.ai platform revealed a 621% surge in heat-related health inquiries between April and June, accompanied by a rise in complaints about symptoms such as dizziness and fainting, excessive sweating—particularly at night—lethargy and fatigue, dehydration, and loss of salts.
Dr. Tom Maggs, Chief Medical Officer at Healthwords.ai, noted that many people believe fatigue during heatwaves is solely due to discomfort, whereas the body actually works harder to maintain its normal temperature. He explained that the body dissipates heat by dilating blood vessels, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood, while water and salts are lost through sweating, which can lead to dehydration even in mild cases.
He added that mild dehydration can cause tiredness, lethargy, and dizziness, and these symptoms may persist even after temperatures fall. Furthermore, poor sleep due to heat over several nights can exacerbate feelings of exhaustion. Dr. Maggs warned that feeling thirsty is a relatively late sign of dehydration, stating, “If you feel thirsty, have a headache, or feel tired, you are likely already experiencing mild dehydration.”
He noted that older adults, young children, and those engaging in outdoor physical activity are most susceptible to dehydration.
The doctor offered five tips to mitigate the effects of heatwaves: drink water regularly throughout the day and do not wait until you feel thirsty; replenish lost fluids and salts, especially during heavy sweating or prolonged outdoor exposure; keep the bedroom cool by closing curtains during the day and avoid strenuous activities before bedtime; take breaks in cool or shaded areas whenever possible; and consult a doctor if dizziness, fainting, confusion, or vomiting persist, as these may be signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
Source: The Mirror
