Summer heat and obesity, precautions to take
We are now in summer… synonymous in most regions of France with significant heat. If for many of us the beautiful days rhyme with holidays, it is necessary to know how to keep the spirit fresh: scorching heats combine with vigilance!
Indeed, it has been established since 2003 and its temperature records (+ 42°C in the shade in Paris in particular), that overweight or obesity are considered risk factors for the deterioration of health. , which can lead to death in the event of high temperatures. This risk is also increased if the person lives alone at home.
The heat wave and the adaptation of the human body
A heat wave is defined by temperatures above 30°C, lasting more than 3 days, and without a significant drop in the temperature difference between day and night (i.e. at least 10°C).
The body adapts to external heat through various physiological changes:
- By dilating the veins, especially those close to the skin, in order to refresh the blood circulating inside,
- By increasing perspiration, in order to evacuate heat through the exuded water,
- By increasing the rate of breathing, again to evacuate the heat, in the form of steam this time.
All of these phenomena lead to an increase in the rate of the heart (in particular to compensate for vasodilation, a medical term meaning the dilation of the veins).
If overweight, what symptoms
However, we know that in the event of obesity or even overweight, the heart is often weakened.
This effort required of the heart muscle in the event of a heat wave is one of the reasons that explain why exposure to high heat is a source of risk in obese people.
In case of suffering due to heat, certain signs should alert ; these are those of dehydration:
- Abnormal fatigue, sometimes intense,
- Confusion, disturbances of consciousness,
- Dizziness, malaise,
- Nausea, sometimes vomiting, stomach aches,
- A feeling of intense thirst, dry mouth,
- loss of appetite,
- A skin fold (when you pinch the skin of the hand for example, it takes time to regain its position, keeping the mark of the fold),
- Little or no urine, sometimes with very concentrated urine.
The first reflex is to drink, in small quantities, but regularly. If liquid intake is complicated, then you have to think about fruits, which are also rich in water.
For people sensitive to heat, you must follow a few basic tips:
Drink regularly, avoid alcohol (which paradoxically accelerates dehydration, etc. ), bring misters, fans or air conditioners, wear loose clothing, and protect yourself heat by keeping shutters and curtains closed, on facades facing the sun.
And in case of outings, remember to bring a bottle of water, a hat, and sunscreen in the bag!
Stephen Paul is the lead author and founder of My Health Sponsor. Holder of a diploma in health and well-being coaching with more than 200 articles in the field of health, he makes it a point of honor to offer advice based on reliable information, based on scientific research, and verified by health professionals.