Temperature warning in Elazığ

Deputy Director of Elazığ Provincial Health Directorate, Specialist Dr. Ramazan Gürgöze, warned the public against sunstroke due to the heat wave affecting the city as the summer months approach. Deputy Director of Elazığ Provincial Health Directorate, Specialist Dr. Ramazan Gürgöze, warned the public against sunstroke due to the heat wave affecting the city as the summer months approach. Deputy Director of Elazığ Provincial Health Directorate, Specialist Dr. Ramazan Gürgöze, stated that extreme heat brings various health problems and that children under four years old, pregnant women, individuals aged 65 and over, and those with chronic illnesses are at higher risk in extreme heat. He emphasized the importance of avoiding exposure to the sun between 10.00 and 16.00 as much as possible to prevent sunstroke. He mentioned that while the sun is the main source of vitamin D synthesis, supporting the immune system and having many other benefits including the synthesis of the happiness hormone, precautions should be taken to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, excessive physical activities, and to consume liquid foods. Long-term effects of sun exposure include the risk of sunstroke, serious skin burns, and skin cancer. The main symptoms of sunstroke include weakness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, intense palpitations that do not pass with half an hour of rest, and headache. In such cases, especially involving babies, children, and elderly individuals, it is recommended to seek immediate medical attention as sunstroke can lead to brain edema and even death.
Deputy Director of Elazığ Provincial Health Directorate, Specialist Dr. Ramazan Gürgöze, emphasized the importance of nutrition in extreme hot weather. He advised that increased fluid and mineral intake due to sweating should be ensured by consuming larger amounts of fluids than usual. Even if there is no feeling of thirst, at least 2 to 2.5 liters of fluid should be consumed daily. Breakfast should include low-fat cheeses, olives, and fresh vegetables, and herbal teas such as milk, fruit juice, linden tea, and rosehip should be preferred over caffeinated beverages. To boost the body’s resistance and ensure an adequate intake of vitamins and minerals, a large amount of fruits and vegetables should be consumed. Patients whose fluid intake is restricted by a doctor or who are using diuretic medications should also follow the doctor’s advice regarding fluid intake. It is not recommended to consume very cold and icy drinks as they may cause stomach cramps, and food sold outdoors and exposed to heat should be avoided. Foods such as meat, eggs, milk, and fish that are at risk of quick spoilage in hot weather should not be left outside, and hygiene rules should be strictly followed during food preparation and cooking.