Heat Is Killer
Extremely hot weather is common in many parts of the world. Although hot weather just makes most people feel hot, it can
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serious medical problems—even death. Floods, storms, volcano eruptions and other natural
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kill thousands of people every year. So
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extreme heat. Experts say heat may be nature"s deadliest killer. Recently, extreme heat was blamed
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killing more than one hundred people in India. It is reported that the total heat of a hot day or several days can
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health. Several hot days are considered a heat wave. Experts say heat waves often become dangerous when the nighttime temperature does not
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much from the highest daytime temperature. This causes great stress on the human body.
Doctors say people can do many things to
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themselves from the dangers of extreme heat. Stay out of the sun, if possible. Drink lots of cool water. Wear light colored clothing made
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natural materials; avoid wearing synthetic clothing. Make sure the clothing is
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, permitting freedom of movement. And learn the danger
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of the medical problems, such as headache and vomiting, that are linked to heat. Most people suffer only muscle pain as a(n)
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of heat stress. The pain is a
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that the body is becoming too hot. Doctors say those suffering headache or muscle pain should stop all activity, rest in a cool place and drink cool liquids. Do not return to physical
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for a few hours because more serious conditions could develop.
Doctors say some people face an
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danger from heat stress. Such persons have a weak or damaged heart, high blood pressure, or other problems of the blood system.
Hot weather also increases dangers for people who must take
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for high blood pressure, poor blood flow, nervousness or depression.