A week – just – of respite, and here is a new one anticyclone coming from Africa hits Italy. Is called Apocalisse4800 and the name does not bode well: according to meteorologists, temperatures will reach 40 degrees and scorching heat it will invest all of Italy. This is why it is good to take note of the suggestions of the Ministry of Health for dealing with heat waves, ten simple rules that can make a difference.
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The ten rules of the Ministry of Health
- Do not go out during the hottest hours: during a heat wave, avoid direct exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day (between 11.00 and 18.00).
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Improve the home and work environment: the simplest measure is the screening of the windows facing south and south-west with adjustable curtains and blinds (shutters, venetian blinds) that block the passage of light, but not that of the air. Of course, the use of air conditioning is effective, but it must be used carefully, avoiding regulating the temperature at levels that are too low compared to the outside temperature. A temperature between 25-27 ° C with a low humidity is sufficient to guarantee well-being and does not expose to sudden changes in temperature compared to the outside. Mechanical fans should also be used with caution, as they accelerate the movement of air but do not lower the ambient temperature; for this the body continues to sweat. It is therefore important to continue to take large amounts of fluids. When the internal temperature exceeds 32 ° C, the use of the fan is not recommended because it is not effective in combating the effects of heat.
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Drink lots of fluids: Drinking plenty of water and eating fresh fruit is an essential measure to counter the effects of heat. Especially for the elderly it is necessary to drink even if you do not feel the urge of thirst. However, there are particular health conditions (such as epilepsy, heart, kidney or liver diseases) for which excessive fluid intake is contraindicated. If you are suffering from any disease you should consult your doctor before increasing your fluid intake. You should also see your doctor if you are on a treatment that restricts your fluid intake or promotes its elimination.
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Moderate the intake of caffeinated beverages, avoid alcoholic beverages.
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Make light meals: digestion is a real job for our body that increases the production of heat in the body.
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Dress comfortably and lightly, with clothing made of cotton, linen or natural fibers (avoid synthetic fibers). Outdoors, it is helpful to wear light, light-colored hats to protect your head from direct sun. Also protect your eyes with sunglasses with UV filters. Particular attention to children.
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In the car, remember to ventilate the passenger compartment before starting a journey, even if the car is equipped with a ventilation system. In this case, adjust the temperature to values about 5 degrees lower than the outside temperature, avoiding directing the air conditioning vents directly on the passengers. If you have to travel, avoid the hottest hours of the day (especially if the car is not air conditioned) and always keep a supply of water in the spot. Never leave babies, children or pets in the car, even for short periods.
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Avoid physical exercise during the hottest hours of the day. In any case, if you exercise, you need to drink plenty of fluids. Athletes may need to compensate for electrolyte loss with supplements.
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Offer assistance to people at greater risk (such as the elderly who live alone, infants, etc.) and report any situations that require intervention to the health and social services. In the elderly, an alarm bell is the reduction of certain daily activities (moving around the house, dressing, eating, regularly going to the toilet, washing) which may indicate a deterioration in health. Check the body temperature of infants and young children, lowering it with a lukewarm shower and when possible open the diaper.
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Give pets plenty of fresh water and leave it in a shaded area.
Last updated: Friday 15 July 2022, 14:43
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