The best way to overcome a heat wave

Knowing how to overcome a heat wave is very important, especially if we take into account that these sudden changes in temperature have become very frequent in recent summers. The abrupt transitions of the climate generate greater risks for our health.

Overcoming a heat wave is not another thing. Just take some basic steps so that these sudden temperature increases do not affect us significantly. These guidelines should be applied with special rigor in the case of children and the elderly, who are the most vulnerable to climate.

There are places where temperatures rise steeply to 40 degrees or more. If you do not take adequate measures to overcome a heat wave, you can have many problems, from dehydration and heat stroke, to muscle spasms and failures in different organs.

The best way to overcome a heat wave is by following these tips:

Permanent hydration and adequate clothing

When there is a high temperature, constant hydration is a mandatory measure. The most advisable thing is to drink water pure, better if it is fresh from the refrigerator. Other drinks, especially if they contain a lot of sugar, will only make you thirsty.

Fruit juices are also advisable, especially if you do not add sugar. The alcohol, in any of its forms, is not advised. It is necessary to emphasize that you must constantly hydrate, even if you do not feel thirsty.

Likewise, it is essential to wear suitable clothing to withstand high temperatures. It is best to use garments made of natural fibers such as cotton, since they facilitate perspiration. Light colors are also recommended, as they reflect the heat instead of concentrating it.

Read also: 6 effects of heat on the body

Overcome a heat wave at home

The best option is not to leave the house during the hottest hours. If it can not be postponed, then it is appropriate to look for places with shade. It is preferable to stay in buildings or closed places that have air conditioning.

And speaking of air conditioning, this is a great ally to overcome a heat wave. However, it must be handled properly. The correct thing is to keep it at a temperature between 22 and 25 degrees, because if it is colder it can lead to colds or other discomforts.

If you're at home, lower all the blinds during the hottest hours and closes the windows. This will prevent the heat from concentrating inside the house. From 9 or 10 at night it is a good idea to open the windows for a couple of hours, to take advantage of the nightly cool.

Appliances and light

Among the advantages of summer, is to provide more hours of light than at any other time of the year. Because, It is advisable not to turn on the lights until it is really necessary. The lights produce heat and that is precisely what we should avoid.

Something similar happens with household appliances. Even if they are not turned on, if they are connected to electricity, they give off heat. It is not that they generate high temperatures, but added together they multiply the sensation of heat. Therefore, it is best to disconnect them and use them only if strictly necessary.

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Homemade tricks against the heat

There are several very simple steps you can take to overcome a heat wave successfully. There are some tricks that can help you in that purpose. The following are some of them:

• Do not use makeup. Creams and body lotions contain elements that retain heat. Therefore, it is best not to use makeup, or at least use the least amount possible.
• Do not eat copiously. Abundant foods generate metabolic heat and this increases body temperature. Try to eat only light dishes, several times a day.
• Wet yourself when necessary. If you feel very hot, put some cold water on your neck, wrists and forehead. They are points where it is easier to regulate the temperature.
• Protect yourself when leaving. If you are going out, it is best to use sunglasses and something to protect your head. When the sun is very intense, it is best to bring umbrellas. Also, use a fresh footwear, which does not hinder perspiration.
• Use aloe vera. You can freeze a few crystals of aloe vera, in the form of small cubes. If you feel burning in the skin, or notes that it is very dry, rub it with them. Calm and cool.