DOH Warns of Heatstroke During Summer Months

The Department of Health (DOH) has warned of heatstroke, especially among senior citizens, during the summer months.

“Senior citizens are more vulnerable than others because their body thermostat no longer functions just like when they were younger,” DOH spokesperson Dr. Eric Tayag said Tuesday.

Tayag said that also vulnerable to heatstroke are traffic enforcers, construction workers, and commuters in public transport with no air conditioning unit to keep them cool.

Heatstroke occurs when the body’s temperature shoots to 42 degrees Celsius. It can mimic heart attacks and strokes.

Tayag advised those working under the sun and commuters to work or travel when the heat of the sun is not that strong.

They can protect themselves by wearing a hat and clothes with short sleeves, he said.

Putting the wrists under running water or applying an ice pack on the neck also help, along with spraying cold water, chewing on frozen fruits and avoiding caffeinated beverages to avoid dehydration, the health official said. (PNA)
LEILANI S. JUNIO