With the hot days of El Nino compounded with the coming summer season now upon us, a person is encouraged to drink at least eight (8) glasses of water everyday to escape heatstroke, a fatal medical emergency common with extreme temperatures.
And to those who cannot help but be exposed to the biting heat of the sun, bring your own drinking water so you can drink anytime to quench thirst and to avoid dehydration, one of the underlying causes of heatstroke, said Dr. Noel Lumen, Provincial Health Officer I.
At the Action Center Kapihan sa PIA last week, Lumen cautioned that some health concerns, like sore eyes, skin diseases, and respiratory infections, among others, may occur during this prolonged dry season, so people should be aware and consult their local health personnel accordingly.
Dengue, which is usually prevalent during the rainy season, cannot be totally discounted, since people stock water on drums or containers which may end up as breeding ground of the dengue-carrying mosquitoes when not covered, Lumen said.
To prevent common diseases this hot days, Lumen advised constant cleaning and proper hygiene especially in food preparation.
As to heatstroke, Lumen said this can strike across all ages, even the able bodied ones, and so those with existing health problems are the most vulnerable.
Those in great danger must be extra careful, and always remember drinking a minimum of eight glasses daily to avoid becoming dehydrated.
Symptoms include agitation, disorientation, and the absence of sweating.
Treatment in first aid scenario is done by cooling the victim in a shade, or be brought to a cool environment, Lumen also said. (mmp/PIA8-Southern Leyte)
