[Health Tip] Continuous Hot Weather... How to Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses

As recent heatwaves with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees continue, the likelihood of heat-related illnesses is also increasing. On the 24th, with the help of Professor Kim Deokho from the Department of Emergency Medicine at Nowon Eulji University Hospital, we looked into heat-related illnesses and prevention methods.

The representative heat-related illnesses caused by heat are heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat exhaustion refers to dehydration symptoms occurring as the body temperature rises between 37 and 40 degrees Celsius due to exposure to high temperatures. If you experience rapid heartbeat, dizziness, headache, or nausea, you must rest in a shaded area. Heat stroke is more dangerous and severe than heat exhaustion. It occurs in workplaces or exercise areas exposed to excessive high temperatures where heat dissipation is not properly maintained, resulting in a sustained high body temperature. Symptoms include high fever above 40 degrees Celsius, consciousness impairment, central nervous system abnormalities, and seizures.

In particular, people with chronic diseases such as hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, or those undergoing hemodialysis, outdoor workers, and elderly people living alone need to be cautious. The elderly are especially vulnerable to heatwaves because as the body ages, sweat glands decrease, reducing sweat secretion and thus lowering the ability to cool the body. In fact, an analysis of heat-related illnesses caused by heatwaves showed a high proportion of deaths among those aged 65 and older, with most cases occurring while working in fields. Therefore, during the peak sunlight hours when the sun is strongest, it is necessary to stop work and rest in a cool place.

Professor Kim Deokho emphasized, “If a heat-related illness occurs, it is important to first move to a well-ventilated shaded area or a safe indoor space with air conditioning, drink cold water, remove clothing, and cool the body by spraying water on the skin while using a fan or a hand fan.” He added, “If symptoms do not improve after rest, you must visit a medical institution for treatment. If seizures, fainting, or decreased consciousness occur, immediately call 119 to receive hospital care, and move to a cool place right away, remove clothing, and cool the body.”

Professor Kim Deokho, Department of Emergency Medicine, Nowon Eulji University Hospital

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