A doctor discovered how to recognize heat stroke: 'Do this right away'
The article discusses the health risks associated with high temperatures, emphasizing the dangers faced by chronic patients, heart and lung disease sufferers, and oncology patients during heatwaves. It reports that emergency medical services recorded 120 interventions linked to extreme heat, with common issues including blood pressure fluctuations and dehydration. The article advises avoiding direct sunlight between 10 AM and 5 PM, wearing light clothing, using sunscreen, and staying hydrated with water and electrolyte-rich drinks like isotonic beverages or mint tea. It warns against excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption, which can worsen dehydration. Symptoms of heatstroke include fatigue, confusion, and loss of consciousness, requiring immediate medical attention. Health professionals urge caution, especially for elderly individuals, chronically ill people, and those working outdoors.
Heatwaves have intensified across Croatia, prompting health professionals to issue urgent warnings about dehydration and its potentially severe consequences. Neurology specialist Filip Đerke from Dubrava Clinical Center has emphasized the dangers of prolonged exposure to high temperatures, noting that the body’s compensatory mechanisms can become overwhelmed after several days. He explained that while individuals might initially dismiss symptoms such as fatigue or headaches as mere exhaustion, these could actually signal early signs of dehydration. “The body begins losing fluids and electrolytes more rapidly during heatwaves,” he said, stressing that this process can lead to neurological issues, including confusion, memory loss, and even impaired motor function. The situation has escalated with reports of increased emergency interventions linked to extreme heat. According to data from the City Emergency Medical Service in Zagreb, there were 120 incidents recorded over a recent period, many involving chronic illness patients, particularly those with heart or lung conditions. Voditeljica smjene Aleksandra Bogdanović highlighted that among the most common problems were fluctuations in blood pressure and chest pain, often associated with dehydration. She urged the public to avoid direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., wear light clothing, apply sunscreen, and carry water with them at all times. “Carrying a bottle of water is essential,” she advised, adding that isotonic drinks containing electrolytes are especially useful for those spending long periods outdoors. Đerke further elaborated on the importance of proper hydration, explaining that the body becomes dehydrated before one even notices the symptoms. “When the body starts losing fluids, it signals through brain activity, headaches, dizziness, and confusion,” he said. These symptoms are often mistaken for tiredness, but they can escalate quickly, leading to serious complications. He recommended drinking water regularly, along with mineral or carbonated waters, which can help replenish lost fluids more effectively than regular tap water. Milk was also cited as a beneficial option due to its ability to restore both water and essential minerals. However, he warned against excessive caffeine consumption and energy drinks, which act as diuretics and can worsen dehydration. In addition to water, experts suggest consuming herbal teas, particularly mint tea, which has a cooling effect and can aid in maintaining hydration levels. The use of natural remedies such as coconut water, rich in sodium, potassium, and magnesium, has also been recommended as a way to naturally replenish electrolytes. For those who experience persistent fatigue, muscle cramps, or difficulty concentrating despite adequate sleep, the lack of essential minerals may be the underlying cause. “It's crucial to recognize that dehydration isn't just about thirst, it affects cognitive and physical performance,” Đerke noted. Health officials have also raised concerns about younger individuals, who may underestimate their risk of heat-related illnesses. Cases of heatstroke with neurological symptoms have been documented among students in their twenties, with dehydration identified as a key factor. “Younger people often push themselves too hard during heatwaves, ignoring the warning signs,” said Bogdanović. She stressed that even mild dehydration can lead to serious health issues, especially for those with pre-existing medical conditions. As the heatwave continues, authorities are urging the population to remain vigilant, stay hydrated, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms persist.
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