Heat waves cause increased stress on the body, and their effects are not limited to discomfort, but may lead to dehydration, fatigue, and health problems that persist even after temperatures drop.
Doctors emphasize that early recognition and prevention of heat stress symptoms are among the most important ways to avoid complications.
New data from Healthwords.ai (a digital health platform registered with the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) as a Category 1 medical device) revealed a 621% increase in health inquiries related to fever between April and June, with people increasingly reporting symptoms such as:
Dr. Tom Maggs, chief medical officer at Healthwords.ai, said that many people believe that fatigue during heat waves is caused only by discomfort, while in reality the body is working harder to maintain its normal temperature.
He explained that the body gets rid of heat through the dilation of blood vessels, while the heart works harder to pump blood, and it also loses water and salts through sweating, which can lead to dehydration even in mild cases.
He added that mild dehydration can cause fatigue, lethargy, and dizziness, and these symptoms may persist even after temperatures drop. Also, lack of sleep due to the heat for several nights can increase feelings of exhaustion.
Magz warned that thirst is a relatively late sign of dehydration, saying, "If you're thirsty, have a headache, or feel tired, you're likely already experiencing mild dehydration." He added that older adults, young children, and people who engage in outdoor physical activity are most susceptible to dehydration.
The doctor offered five tips to reduce the effects of heat waves:
Drink water regularly throughout the day and don't wait until you feel thirsty.
Replenish lost fluids and salts, especially when sweating heavily or staying outside the home for long periods.
Keep the bedroom cool, close the curtains during the day, and avoid strenuous activities before bedtime.
Take breaks in cool or shaded places whenever possible.
See a doctor if dizziness persists, or if fainting, confusion, or vomiting occurs, as these may be signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
Magz stressed that most people recover by resting, cooling down, and getting enough fluids, emphasizing that prevention remains the best approach by drinking water regularly, avoiding sun exposure during peak hours, and paying attention to early signs of dehydration.
