Heat wave: How to take care of yourself

Southern Europe has been hit by heatwaves that cause extremely high temperatures in popular holiday destinations such as Spain, Greece, and Italy. SOS International recalls that especially young children and the elderly are vulnerable in the heat.

When temperatures are up in the 40s (Celsius), there is good reason to take precautions to avoid heat stroke and dehydration. And if you have young children or elderly fellow travelers, there is extra good reason to be careful.

Semera Asghar, chief medical officer at SOS International, explains that children and elderly people find it harder to regulate body temperature.

"We recommend consuming plenty of fluids and staying in shade or indoors during the hottest hours of the day," said Semera Asghar, chief medical officer of SOS International's medical advisory service.

In addition, it is a good idea to know the danger signs and take precautions in relation to how to avoid getting bad from the heat.

How to avoid heat stroke

  1. Drink plenty of fluids. Remember that alcohol is diuretic and thus has the opposite effect.
  2. Be careful with physical activity.
  3. Season food with extra salt and sugar, eat chips or drink sports drinks with electrolytes.
  4. Seek shade or air-conditioned areas.
  5. Cool baths help cool the body.
  6. Loose and light clothing, sun hat and ample sunscreen

Know these warning signs: 

There is reason to be aware if the skin is warm and you do not sweat or you have severe headaches and nausea. If these symptoms occur, you should start by cooling the body and drinking plenty of fluids.

Other signs of heat stroke include:

  • Increasing malaise, faintness, headache, and dizziness
  • Anxiety, confusion, poor contactability
  • Fainting, convulsions
  • Rapid pulse
  • Impaired urinary function

If you need medical attention, it is important to contact your insurance company's alarm centre. SOS International's alarm centre for travel assistance ensures that you are sent to a suitable treatment facility.

Contact us

Are you travelling and in need of acute assistance?

Contact SOS International's alarm centre on +45 7010 5050.

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