Heat and health The three groups most at risk from heat

Extreme heat poses significant health risks, particularly for certain vulnerable groups. According to medical experts, three main categories of individuals are especially susceptible during periods of intense heat. These include people over the age of 65, those with pre-existing heart or cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension or a history of heart attack, and individuals who live alone. The physiological effects of high temperatures can be severe, leading to dehydration and increased strain on the circulatory system. As explained by Dr. François Dupuis, a physician and medical director at the Ecole de Santé de Suisse Romande, strong heat causes blood vessels to dilate and increases sweating, which results in fluid loss. This leads to thicker blood and forces the heart to work harder under less favorable conditions. While this additional effort typically does not pose a problem for healthy individuals, those with weakened systems may experience worsening of existing conditions or even sudden cardiac arrest.

The risk of cardiac arrest during extreme heat is a critical concern. According to studies cited by Dr. Dupuis, older adults are more likely to suffer from heat-related complications due to their reduced ability to regulate body temperature. Similarly, individuals with pre-existing heart conditions face heightened risks because their bodies are already under stress. Additionally, those living alone may not receive timely assistance if they begin experiencing symptoms, making them another high-risk group. To mitigate these dangers, Dr. Dupuis emphasizes the importance of staying hydrated, seeking shade or cooler environments, and ensuring regular check-ins with elderly, ill, or isolated family members.

Recognizing early warning signs is crucial in preventing serious outcomes. Classic symptoms of a potential heart attack include chest pain or discomfort that may radiate to the arms or jaw. However, these symptoms can sometimes present differently, especially among women. It is vital to take any indication of distress seriously. If someone reports feeling unwell, it should not be dismissed. In cases of uncertainty, contacting emergency services immediately is recommended. A survey conducted in 2020 by the Swiss Red Cross and Helsana revealed that only half of the Swiss population feels confident enough to provide help in emergencies. Despite this, the most important step is to act rather than hesitate.

When calling emergency services, it is essential to place the phone on speaker mode so that instructions can be followed clearly. After the call, one should assess whether the person is responsive by speaking to them and gently shaking their shoulders. If there is no response, checking for breathing becomes necessary. Normal breathing indicates that the situation might not involve cardiac arrest but could still require urgent attention. Conversely, if the person is not breathing normally—either not at all or exhibiting irregular gasping—it is time to initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) according to the guidance provided by the emergency operator. Dr. Dupuis stresses that the fear of causing harm should not prevent action, as CPR rarely causes damage when unnecessary and can save lives when needed.

In response to the increasing frequency of heatwaves, some long-term care facilities have taken proactive measures to protect their residents. For example, in a nursing home in Winterthur, efforts are being made to ensure that residents remain comfortable despite the high temperatures. Many of the elderly residents expressed a preference for remaining in their current homes, even though they are aware of the risks associated with extreme heat. This highlights the need for both personal awareness and community support to manage the challenges posed by rising temperatures effectively.