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Europe is bracing for severe heatwaves this week, with temperatures expected to exceed 40°C in parts of Italy, Spain and Greece.
Scorching summers are becoming increasingly common due to climate change, and they can be dangerous. In 2022 alone, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that around 62,000 people died in Europe as a result of extreme temperatures.
Although heat waves can affect anyone, the risk is higher for outdoor workers, the elderly, infants, people taking certain medications, and those suffering from chronic illnesses.
Most health consequences are predictable and preventable, but it is essential to know the risks to protect yourself.
Here's how the heat wave affects your health.
1. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats due to excessive loss of water and salts, usually through sweating. Resting in cool environments and drinking fluids helps in most cases.
But if the condition doesn't improve within 30 minutes, it can progress to heat stroke, a medical emergency. Symptoms include rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, confusion, convulsions, and loss of consciousness.
2. Worsening of existing diseases
High temperatures during the day and nights that are not cooled enough make it difficult to regulate the body's internal temperature. This increases the burden on the heart and kidneys.
As a result, diseases such as diabetes, asthma and cardiovascular disease are exacerbated. The WHO calls heat stress the leading cause of weather-related deaths, while the aging population in Europe is expected to increase the risk even further in the coming years.
3. Bad air quality
Heatwaves worsen air quality by fueling massive fires and keeping polluted air trapped over cities, a "deadly combination", according to European scientists.
Air pollution worsens pulmonary problems such as asthma and increases the risk of heart attack and stroke, due to blood thickening.
4. Mental health under pressure
High temperatures can cause stress, irritability, anxiety and problems concentrating, especially in those with pre-existing mental health challenges.
These consequences come from a combination of disrupted sleep, physical reactions to the heat, and constant discomfort, which researchers call a "fertile ground for psychological distress."
5. Accidents and overload in the healthcare system
Heat waves can cause power outages and transportation chaos, compromising medical services just when they are needed most.
According to the Swedish Work Environment Authority, heat stress affects concentration and decision-making, increasing the risk of accidents at work or in traffic, especially for those who work outdoors.
Care and awareness are key to safely facing the summer ahead.
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