In the news, reports of heat waves have been increasing in Malaysia, affecting many vulnerable individuals who spend time outdoors. Health director-general Datuk Dr. Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan, advised the public to avoid direct sun exposure due to current hot weather conditions. As the weather continues to be sweltering, it’s essential to stay informed, be able to identify symptoms and avoid it altogether.
What are Heat Illnesses?
Heat illness refers to a spectrum of conditions that occur when the body’s ability to regulate its temperature is overwhelmed by excessive heat. These conditions range from mild to severe and are often triggered by prolonged exposure to high temperatures, physical exertion in the heat, or inadequate hydration. The body normally cools itself by sweating, but when the heat is extreme, or when humidity levels are high, this cooling mechanism can become less effective, leading to heat-related illnesses.
Heat illnesses can vary in severity:
Heat Rash: A skin irritation caused by excessive sweating, typically in hot, humid conditions. It often appears as red clusters of small blisters or pimples.
Heat Cramps: Painful muscle spasms that occur due to heavy sweating and loss of salt and electrolytes. They typically affect the abdomen, arms, or legs.
Heat Syncope: A sudden dizziness or fainting episode caused by overheating, often occurring after standing for long periods or suddenly rising from a sitting or lying position.
Heat Exhaustion: A more serious condition that occurs when the body loses too much water and salt through sweating. Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache. If untreated, it can lead to heat stroke.
Heat Stroke: The most severe form of heat illness, occurring when the body’s temperature rises rapidly to dangerous levels (104°F or higher). It is a life-threatening emergency characterised by confusion, loss of consciousness, and potential organ damage. Immediate medical attention is required.
The steps we outline in this article can be applied to avoid all of these heat illnesses. We emphasise being cautious to avoid the worse case scenario. Risk factors such as high temperatures, humidity, dehydration, and strenuous physical activity increase the likelihood of developing heat stroke. Do not hesitate to go to a clinic or hospital if your symptoms get out of hand.
Why is Heat Stroke So Dangerous?
Heat stroke is extremely dangerous because the body’s temperature regulation system fails, leading to a rapid and uncontrolled rise in body temperature. This can have catastrophic effects, potentially causing permanent damage to vital organs and even death if not treated immediately.
In heat stroke, the body’s core temperature can soar to 104°F (40°C) or higher within minutes. At these levels, the body’s proteins and cellular structures begin to break down, leading to widespread damage. The body loses its ability to regulate temperature through sweating, leading to a vicious cycle of overheating.
The brain is particularly vulnerable to high temperatures. Prolonged exposure can lead to swelling, seizures, confusion, and potentially permanent neurological damage.The heart must work harder to pump blood and maintain circulation under extreme heat. This can lead to arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) or heart failure, especially for anyone with pre-existing heart conditions.
This isn’t even mentioning the dangers of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, or a systemic inflammatory response. Heat stroke is extremely avoidable if you take the right steps.
The Steps to Avoid Heat Stroke
Hydration Is Key
To prevent heat-related illnesses in Malaysia’s hot climate, maintaining proper hydration is essential, especially during outdoor activities. Drinking water regularly throughout the day, even when you don’t feel thirsty, is necessary to uphold adequate hydration levels.
Monitoring your urine colour can indicate whether you’re drinking enough water to prevent dehydration and heat exhaustion. Dehydration risks can be minimised further by avoiding sweet, carbonated beverages and opting for water or isotonic drinks instead. By staying hydrated, you can significantly lessen the chances of experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke in Malaysia.
Dress To Protect
Opt for heat-friendly outfits by selecting light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing that reflects sunlight and promotes air circulation. Summer styles should include breathable fabrics like cotton, which help sweat evaporate and cool the body. Avoid dark-coloured clothing that absorbs heat and contributes to overheating.
Use hats or umbrellas to shield yourself from direct sunlight and reduce heat absorption. Make wise clothing choices by opting for items with UPF for added protection against harmful UV rays.
Seek Shade and Cool Areas
During periods of intense sunlight, it’s advisable to seek shade and cool areas to protect yourself from the risk of heat stroke. By staying in shaded areas or seeking cool spots indoors, you can avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. The benefits of shade include regulating body temperature and reducing the chances of heat stroke.
Using cooling techniques such as cooling towels or misting fans can provide heat relief and help you stay cool. Taking indoor breaks in well-ventilated areas during peak heat hours is vital to minimise the risk of heat stroke.
Know the Signs and Symptoms
It’s equally important to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat stroke, as well as any of the earlier stages of heat illness. Recognizing symptoms like high body temperature above 40°C, altered mental state, confusion, weakness, nausea, and vomiting is essential. If you experience these signs, seek immediate medical help to prevent complications like organ failure or death. Remember that heat exhaustion can quickly progress to heat stroke if left untreated.
When Should You Go to the Clinic?
If you can’t immediately get home to rest, having someone drive you to a clinic or infirmary is a sound option to help you cool down. These medical facilities are well equipped to help you with heat exhaustion, but the more severe stage of heatstroke warrants a visit to the hospital to handle any bodily failures or organ damage.
The clinic will first assess symptoms such as heavy sweating, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, headache, and muscle cramps to confirm a diagnosis of heat exhaustion and rule out heat stroke. If the patient is conscious and able to drink, the clinic may provide oral rehydration solutions containing water and electrolytes to replace those lost through sweating. For more severe cases or if the patient is unable to drink, the clinic can administer IV fluids to quickly restore hydration and balance electrolytes.
The patient will be monitored, as they rest in a comfortable position, often with their legs elevated to improve circulation. If there isn’t a high risk of the symptoms developing further, the patient is safe to return home to rest better.
Dr. Prevents has branches throughout Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. They’re open 24 hours and are more than ready for any emergency situations such as heat exhaustion.
Sometimes it’s okay to be a puteri lilin. As long as you take necessary precautions and stay well within your limits while doing outdoor activities, you should be able to avoid heat stroke. By staying hydrated, dressing appropriately, seeking shade, and recognizing the signs of heat stroke, you can protect yourself from this dangerous condition.
Remember, knowledge and proactive measures are key to avoiding heat stroke in Malaysia. Stay vigilant and prioritise your health.