With the unbearable city heat, sitting inside a crowded jeepney or riding a motorcycle can be extremely uncomfortable. Add to that the slow pace of Cebu traffic, and this weather is bound to induce headaches, and even the possibility of heatstroke.
Heatstroke is a condition where the body overheats after prolonged exposure to the heat. If not treated immediately, it can cause death, or cause damage to the internal organs of the body.
Just recently, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) released a list of dangerous heat indexes around certain areas of the Philippines, with Dagupan City, Pangasinan, as the highest with 51 degrees Celsius as of April 9, 2019.
Although Cebu City is nowhere to be seen on the list as of press time, there’s no reason for people to be complacent, as the weather is unpredictable.
This summer, it’s important to recognise symptoms of heatstroke and how to avoid it.
The common symptoms include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Shallowed breathing
- Fast heart rate
- Headache
Here are some helpful tips to remember in order to prevent heatstroke:
Drink plenty of water
It’s best to always bring a reusable water bottle with you at all times. There are plenty of ATMs (Automatic Tubig Machine) stations around Cebu City, where you can get a quick refill of cold water for just one peso. You’re saving Mother Earth and avoiding heatstroke at the same time.
Bring an umbrella
Whether it’s raining or not, bringing an umbrella is highly encouraged, most especially if you are planning to walk a few blocks under the heat of the sun.
Rest frequently
If you feel like your body is slowing down, then you should stop and take a rest at a shaded area. Use a hand fan to normalize your body temperature.
Wear loose clothes
Ditch the jackets, the cardigans, and any tight-fitting clothes! Instead of covering yourself up to avoid sunburn, opt for the loose clothing or sleeveless shirts, and slap on some sunscreen.
Avoid large crowds
Holy Week is upon us, and this week tends to draw in some rather large crowds that are mostly found in churches. To avoid heatstroke, it’s best to stay out of the crowds and to observe the activity from a safe distance.
Seek shelter immediately if everything becomes too much.
However, it is not recommended to immediately go inside an air-conditioned room after spending the day under the heat. It’s best to lower your body temperature first by resting under a cool shade for a few minutes before going inside. A sudden change in body temperature from hot to cold can bring in headaches, fever, and even flu.
Stay safe and stay healthy this summer season. / celr
* Photos from pixabay.com
