Excessive heat continues in Lomé and the maritime region. A phenomenon which is not without consequences on human health.
According to Dr Edem Agbodjan, general practitioner, heat affects the body’s ability to regulate its own temperature. Also, prolonged exposure to heat can sometimes unbalance the body by not allowing it to play its normal regulatory role. “When there is a high temperature level, we can see what we call dehydration; the body loses water and then mineral salts,” he explained.
In fact, when the body is more dehydrated this sets the stage for several diseases and several manifestations. “We can, for example, notice this through extreme fatigue, a heaviness within you. You may experience dizziness and insomnia. And then, sometimes people faint in the presence of high levels of heat. We can also notice the effects of dehydration on the skin, such as loss of radiance of the skin or loss of comfort,” explained the doctor.
According to James Creswick, WHO technical adviser on environment and health, heat waves are of particular concern for the elderly, infants, people who work outdoors and people with chronic illnesses. Prolonged exposure to heat can aggravate existing pathologies such as cardiovascular, respiratory and kidney diseases, as well as mental health problems. It can also lead to heat exhaustion and, even worse, heat stroke.
In view of these effects, it is very appropriate to better take the necessary measures to be able to manage these moments of heat that we are currently witnessing.
According to Dr Latifou Issaou, director of the National Meteorology Agency (ANAMET), with this excessive heat, special attention is needed for the elderly and children.
Breastfeeding mothers are advised to drink plenty of water, as dehydration can impair breast milk production. Children 6 months and older should drink water regularly throughout the day.
Concerning pregnant women, it is requested to schedule medical appointments and any other tasks during the cooler times of the day to avoid exposing yourself and the baby.
Furthermore, it is recommended to hydrate and cool off regularly. Wear light, loose clothing, use light linens, take cool showers or baths, and drink regularly, avoiding alcoholic, caffeinated, and sugary drinks. If necessary and possible, try to spend 2 to 3 hours of the day in a cool place.
Atha ASSAN