Heat Stress: How This Condition Heats Up

It’s no secret that the world is growing hotter. Temperatures throughout the globe have been rising, especially in the recent summer.

Singapore, especially, is no secret to this – it is expected that temperatures can reach 40 degrees on certain days by 2045.

Record heatwaves across the world have struck countries like India, Europe, and Pakistan. They have caused numerous devastating wildfires and killed thousands.

Heat stress is one problem that affects the population, especially the more vulnerable like the outdoor workers, the young, and the elderly.

We take a look at this condition in detail!
What is Heat Stress?
Heat stress is a condition that happens when the body cannot get rid of additional body heat. This additional heat builds up and becomes harmful to the body.
3 Common Heat-Related Illnesses

There are 3 common types of heat-related illnesses linked to heat stress. They include:

Heat cramps: Painful muscle spasms or cramps that occur in the stomach, legs, or arms, and are usually the first signs of heat illness
Heat exhaustion: More serious than heat cramps, and can lead to heat stroke if left alone
Heat stroke: The most severe type of heat-related illness and needs medical aid immediately
What Are Some Common Heat Stress Symptoms?

Like other heat-related illnesses, these are some symptoms of heat stress to look out for:

Extremely high body temperature
Excessive sweating
Confusion
Slurred speech
Nausea
Headache
Weakness
Thirst
What Are Some Ways to Prevent Heat Stress?

There are some preventive methods you can use to avoid heat stress:

Wearing airy and loose-fitting clothes when outside
Make sure you’re hydrated and drinking the recommended amount of water
Avoid going outdoors and try to remain in shaded or air-conditioned places
Use a damp cloth to wipe yourself when possible
Take breaks frequently
Get enough sleep and rest
Managing Heat Stress at Work

Some individuals deal with a higher risk of heat stress at the workplace than others. For example, those who spend a significant amount of time in the sun, like construction workers, or employees who work in hot and stuffy settings like factories, face a greater risk.

Heat stress can lead to heat stroke and heat exhaustion, and may even increase the potential of injuries in dangerous workplace settings. Elderly workers or those with pre-existing health conditions
How Can a Telemedicine Consultation Help?

When you suspect that you’re suffering from heat stress or other heat-related illnesses like heat stroke, a telemedicine consultation can be a quick way to receive medical aid.

You can get help from a doctor in Singapore through a telemedicine consultation wherever you are at any point in time. Otherwise, you should seek medical help immediately, or perform these actions:

Shift to a cool or shaded environment as quickly as possible
Drink as much cool water as possible
Spray yourself with cold water
Loosen or get rid of excess clothing