With the arrival of summer and scorching temperatures, our bodies are put to the test. The great heat is not only annoying: it can be a real health hazard, especially for certain categories of people such as the elderly, children, people with chronic diseases and sun-exposed workers.
Common heat-related ailments include swollen legs, cardiovascular complications, and skin problems.
1. Swollen legs: heat worsens circulation.
High temperatures dilate blood vessels, particularly veins, slowing venous return to the heart. This phenomenon causes blood pooling in the lower extremities, leading to swelling, heaviness and pain in the legs. Those already suffering from chronic venous insufficiency (such as varicose veins) may see symptoms worsen.
Keeping the legs elevated whenever possible is one of the most effective remedies, but it is also important to avoid standing or sitting for too long, use elastic restraining stockings (on medical advice), and drink plenty of water to improve circulation.
2. Heart disease: the heart under stress
Hot weather forces the heart to work harder to maintain a stable body temperature. Vasodilation, a natural mechanism for dissipating heat, causes a lowering of blood pressure. To compensate, the heart speeds up the rate, increasing the risk of heart failure, arrhythmias and heart attacks, especially in heart patients and the elderly.
Those suffering from heart disease or otherwise cardiovascular conditions should definitely avoid sun exposure during the hottest hours, strictly follow prescribed therapies, limit intense physical exertion, and hydrate heavily.
3. Skin: between sunstroke and dermatitis
The skin is the first barrier against heat, but it is also the most exposed to its effects. Excessive exposure to the sun can cause sunburn and sunstroke, with redness, pain, and in severe cases fever and dehydration.
Sweat dermatitis, especially in skin folds, irritation from insect bites are also frequent, and chronic skin diseases such as rosacea or psoriasis often worsen in hot weather.
The dermatologist's main advice is to always use sunscreen and cover up with light-colored, breathable clothing. Frequent showers to eliminate sweat and impurities are also useful; avoid perfumes and irritating cosmetics before sun exposure.
Extreme heat is a growing phenomenon due to climate change. Each summer brings with it increasingly intense and prolonged heat waves. Protecting yourself means first of all listening to your body and adopting smart behaviors by not underestimating symptoms such as abnormal fatigue, dizziness or irregular heartbeat.
Health does not go on vacation, and heat is not just about discomfort-it can turn into a real health emergency. Being informed is the first step to staying safe.
