'Don't wait to get thirsty.' Canicula quickly affects heart, brain and kidneys, doctors warn: 'Symptoms appear too late'

Extreme heat waves have become a growing concern in recent months, particularly due to their severe impact on human health. Medical experts warn that high temperatures can rapidly affect vital organs such as the heart, brain, and kidneys, often before symptoms become noticeable. Dr. Alexandru Nechifor, a specialist in internal medicine, emphasizes that many people mistakenly wait until they feel thirsty to drink water, which is too late because dehydration has already begun. This misunderstanding can lead to serious health complications, especially among vulnerable groups like the elderly, individuals with chronic illnesses, and those working outdoors.

The body's response to extreme heat involves mechanisms such as vasodilation and increased sweating, which place additional strain on the cardiovascular system. These processes can cause reduced blood flow to the kidneys, leading to potential kidney damage. Dr. Nechifor highlights that signs of significant dehydration, such as infrequent urination and dark-colored urine, are often overlooked. He also warns that people with pre-existing conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory issues, or kidney disorders must be particularly cautious, as even mild dehydration can exacerbate these conditions.

Another critical factor is the influence of medications on how the body reacts to heat. Certain drugs, including diuretics, can increase fluid loss and salt imbalance, while others used for hypertension, heart conditions, or mental health can alter sweat production, thirst perception, and adaptation to high temperatures. Dr. Nechifor advises against self-adjusting medication doses without consulting a healthcare provider. Patients experiencing unusual symptoms such as dizziness, low blood pressure, or excessive weakness should seek immediate medical advice.

Proper storage of medications is another often-overlooked detail. High temperatures can compromise the stability of medicines, making them less effective or potentially harmful. It is recommended that medications not be left in cars or exposed to direct sunlight.

When heat becomes a medical emergency, symptoms such as muscle cramps, heavy sweating, nausea, headaches, and fatigue may indicate heat exhaustion. In such cases, the affected person should be moved to a cooler environment, rested, and hydrated if conscious and able to swallow. More severe symptoms like confusion, slurred speech, unusual behavior, fainting, seizures, or extremely high body temperature signal heatstroke, which requires immediate emergency assistance. According to Dr. Nechifor, calling 112 immediately is crucial, and unconscious or confused individuals should not be given fluids until professional help arrives.

Dr. Nechifor recommends avoiding travel and intense physical activity between 11 AM and 6 PM during heatwaves. Regular water intake, limiting alcohol and overly sweet beverages, wearing light clothing, and checking on elderly family members daily are essential precautions. These measures aim to prevent the onset of severe health issues caused by prolonged exposure to extreme heat.

In addition to the risks posed by extreme weather, the use of dietary supplements has raised concerns among medical professionals. Many individuals take supplements without medical guidance, often influenced by social media trends. While some supplements can be beneficial, there are associated risks, particularly when taken in large doses or combined with other substances. Studies show that approximately 20% of liver-related cases attributed to medications are actually linked to dietary supplements and herbal products.

Experts caution that the assumption that "natural" means "safe" is misleading. Some plant extracts, such as green tea, curcumin, ashwagandha, and ginseng, can cause liver damage when consumed in high quantities. Similarly, excessive intake of vitamin D or protein supplements without proper oversight can harm the kidneys. The lack of stringent regulations similar to those governing pharmaceuticals means that supplements do not undergo clinical trials before being sold, placing responsibility on manufacturers to ensure safety.

Medical professionals emphasize that while certain supplements may be necessary for correcting nutritional deficiencies or managing specific health conditions, their use should always be guided by professional consultation. Before taking any supplement, individuals should verify their need through blood tests and specialized consultations. Caution is advised to avoid overconsumption of vitamins and minerals, as well as dangerous interactions with prescribed medications.

Despite these warnings, there are situations where supplements are indeed necessary, such as confirmed nutrient deficiencies, pregnancy, restrictive diets, absorption disorders, or specific medical recommendations. However, the overarching message remains clear: both extreme heat and improper use of supplements pose significant health risks that require careful attention and professional guidance.