How to Cope with El Niño and Heat Wave

By – Dr. Moe Thit Nay (Ayeyarwaddy Times, October 11) We have all experienced hot weather during the summer. However, when it is hotter than usual and persistently hot day after day, the body's ability to regulate its temperature can be affected, leading to various health problems. As the hot and dry El Niño phenomenon is not just a climate issue but a public health problem that threatens human lives and concerns everyone, it is crucial to prepare in advance. Especially when the El Niño phenomenon, heat waves, drought, and forest fires combine, the impact on people's health tends to become more severe. What is El Niño? El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon associated with rising sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean near the equator, above average. El Niño can cause changes in rainfall patterns, air temperatures, and weather conditions in various regions around the world. In years when El Niño occurs, some regions in Southeast Asia, including Myanmar, tend to experience higher than average temperatures and heat, reduced rainfall and water scarcity, increased risk of forest fires and air pollution, and damage to agriculture and food production. A heat wave refers to a condition where the temperature in a region is significantly higher than its normal climate and remains hot for an extended period. While El Niño and heat waves are different phenomena, El Niño can increase the likelihood of heat waves occurring in some areas. Excessive Heat and Body Changes The human body normally maintains its internal temperature around 37 degrees Celsius. When the ambient temperature rises, the body primarily uses two methods to dissipate heat: Sweating – Evaporation of sweat helps to lower body temperature. Vasodilation – Increased blood flow to the skin helps to release internal body heat to the outside. However, when the temperature is excessively high, humidity is high, or dehydration occurs, heat regulation becomes insufficient, leading to a series of heat-related health problems. Health Problems Caused by Heat Waves Dehydration – When the temperature is high, sweating increases, and the body loses water and electrolytes. Symptoms can include intense thirst, dry mouth, headache, dizziness, reduced urination, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can also affect the kidneys. Heat Cramps – Muscle pain and spasms in the legs, arms, and abdomen can occur in people working or exercising in hot conditions due to excessive sweating and electrolyte loss. Heat Exhaustion – Symptoms can include excessive sweating, headache, dizziness, nausea, and rapid heartbeat. Heat Stroke – This is a life-threatening emergency and the most dangerous of heat-related health problems. Symptoms can include confusion, slurred speech, loss of consciousness, seizures, and a body temperature of 40 degrees Celsius or higher. Heat can Worsen Chronic Diseases Heat waves are not only dangerous for healthy individuals but pose a greater risk to those with chronic diseases. Cardiovascular Diseases – Increased heart rate and workload, combined with dehydration, can be extremely dangerous for people with heart conditions. Kidney Diseases – Dehydration can reduce blood flow to the kidneys, potentially causing kidney damage. Diabetes – Heat and dehydration can make it difficult to control blood sugar levels. Respiratory Diseases – Forest fires, smog, and air pollution can worsen symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). People More Susceptible to Heat Children under 5 years old, newborns, the elderly over 65, pregnant women, and individuals with heart, kidney, diabetes, and respiratory diseases should take special precautions. Additionally, those working in agriculture, construction, factories, and outdoor jobs are also highly susceptible to heat. How to Protect Yourself from Heat Waves Stay Hydrated – Instead of waiting until you are thirsty, drink water regularly during hot periods. (Note: Individuals with heart or kidney conditions who have fluid restrictions should follow their doctor's advice.) Reduce Outdoor Activities During Peak Heat Hours – Avoid strenuous physical activity and outdoor work as much as possible during the hottest parts of the day. Rest in a Cool Place – Stay in well-ventilated, shaded areas. If the indoor temperature is excessively high, use air conditioners or fans. Wear Appropriate Clothing – Choose light, loose-fitting, and breathable cotton clothing. Look After Vulnerable Individuals – Regularly check on neighbors and family members, including children, the elderly, and pregnant women, for signs of heat-related illness. While we cannot stop the climate from warming, we can reduce heat-related deaths through foresight, prevention, and timely treatment. We wish everyone a safe and healthy passage through the heat. Next week, we will continue with the article "Pain and Humanity." The post How to Cope with El Niño and Heat Wave appeared first on Ayeyarwaddy Times.