[Daily Health] Already 11 deaths... Types and prevention methods of 'heat-related illnesses'

Wow... I said it was really hot even though it's hot...

Eleven people have already died from heat-related illnesses...

Really hot days are for staying at home or in the office.

You really shouldn't go around if you can help it!!!

I should try to drink water more often.

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[Dailyan = Reporter Lee Jeong-hee] The deadly heatwave continues day after day. With 11 deaths caused by the heatwave so far, there is a growing need to understand and be cautious about heat-related illnesses.

Heat-related illnesses occur when exposed to heat for extended periods, including heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and heat fainting. The main symptoms are dizziness, headache, fatigue, and weakness.

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Heat exhaustion occurs when excessive sweating leads to a deficiency of fluids and electrolytes. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, flushing, and rapid heartbeat. Restoring adequate hydration in a cool place can alleviate symptoms, but if not properly treated, it can progress to heat stroke.

Heatstroke is a condition that occurs when the nervous system responsible for regulating body temperature fails to withstand heat stimuli. It can be accompanied by multiple organ damage and dysfunction, which may lead to death, so extreme caution is necessary. Typically, symptoms include high fever above 40°C, severe headache, chills, hypotension, tachycardia, and as it worsens, consciousness disturbances may also appear.

Heat syncope is more likely to occur in elderly individuals who are unable to adapt to hot weather. This is because exposure to high temperatures causes a decrease in blood volume and dilation of peripheral blood vessels. Simple heat syncope usually recovers with rest. Resting in the shade or a cool indoor environment, along with adequate hydration, can lead to improvement.

To prevent heat-related illnesses, it is necessary to regularly and adequately hydrate oneself. However, excessive intake of fluids beyond the necessary amount can dilute the body's required sodium levels and may lead to hyponatremia, so caution is advised.

To ensure safe hydration, it is safer to replace fluids with fruits and electrolyte drinks that can simultaneously replenish carbohydrates and sodium. Additionally, assessing urine color can help gauge the body's hydration level.