It will forever remain debatable which is more uncomfortable: extreme cold or intense heat. However, while extreme cold places you in grave danger, heat can likewise be as dangerous.

Thus, with the recent rise in temperature in Nigeria, it is necessary to proffer solutions to the situation. In addition, there is a need for people to be aware of the perilous situation they are in as regards the hot weather.

While it also has adverse effects on pets, our focus here is on how humans can manage in extremely hot weather.

At all times, note that your body temperature is determined by the environment, metabolism and clothing (or a lack of it). While temperature increase may affect people differently, the bottom line is: it affects everyone. Generally, it may lead to increased irritability, loss of concentration and the ability to do skilled tasks or heavy work.

In more serious cases, here are some common illnesses caused by heat:

1. Heat oedema
This form of swelling generally happens to people who are not used to staying and working in hot conditions. The swelling occurs mostly in the ankles.

2. Heat rashes
Rashes are tiny red spots on the skin which become prickly when exposed to heat.

3. Heat cramps
These are sharp pains in the muscles that may also come with some other heat stress disorders.

4. Heat exhaustion
Signs of this include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, visual disturbances, intense thirst, nausea, headache, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle cramps, breathlessness, palpitations, tingling and numbness of the hands and feet.

5. Heat syncope
This is heat-induced dizziness and fainting induced by a temporarily insufficient flow of blood to the brain while a person is standing.

6. Heatstroke
Signs of heatstroke include body temperature often greater than 41°C, and complete or partial loss of consciousness. It is the most serious illness caused by extreme heat and can lead to death if not properly managed. Heatstroke is considered the final stage of heat exhaustion.

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In case you or anyone around you shows signs of any of the illnesses described above, here are things you should do immediately:

1. First, it is important that a professional is contacted.
2. While waiting for the professional, move the affected person to a cooler or shaded environment.
3. Take off as many clothes as possible from the person; these include socks and shoes.
4. Apply cool, wet cloths or ice to the person’s head, face or neck. Also, spray them with cool water.
5. Encourage the person to drink water, clear juice, or a sports drink.

While these first aid techniques are useful, it is better to not place oneself in these situations. As the weather is currently hot, here are some tips to survive the heat:

1. Wear light clothing when in a hot environment.
2. If you are indoors, use cooling devices like air conditioning units and/or electric fans. In a case where these are not available, leave the windows open to allow air in.
3. Avoid congested places and spots. Don’t stand in the midst of a crowd if you can afford it and while entering buses ensures the windows all open properly if it lacks air conditioning units.
4. To avoid irritation, avoid unnecessary close contact with others.
5. Reduce consuming spicy foods as they increase body heat.

There are many more that can be done to reduce the adverse effect of the heat. Ensure to put others into consideration as well as the locality you find yourself in. Stay healthy and survive in the face of this massive heat.

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