Dean of Üsküdar University Faculty of Medicine Prof. Haydar Sur addressed the dangers posed by extreme hot weather and the precautions to be taken.
The human body functions most efficiently within a specific temperature range
Pointing out that physiological functions work most efficiently when both internal body temperature and ambient temperature are within certain limits for human health, Prof. Haydar Sur said, “In a healthy adult, normal body temperature is generally between 36.1-37.2 degrees Celsius. The average accepted value is around 36.5-37 degrees Celsius. While a body temperature drop below 35 degrees increases the risk of hypothermia, above 38 degrees is considered fever. A body temperature exceeding 40 degrees can create a life-threatening condition in terms of heatstroke or severe hyperthermia.”
Ideal ambient temperature should be between 20-24 degrees Celsius
Emphasizing that not only temperature but also humidity is of great importance for health, Prof. Sur said, “The ambient temperature at which people feel most comfortable is generally between 20-24 degrees Celsius. In addition, the relative humidity should be around 40-60 percent. While high humidity prevents sweat evaporation, causing the heat to be felt more intensely, very low humidity can lead to dryness in the skin and respiratory tracts.”
What are the most suitable climatic conditions for human biology?
Prof. Sur also noted that research shows the "thermal comfort zone," where the human body can maintain its heat balance without expending energy, consists of environments with temperatures around 22–25 degrees Celsius, 40–60 percent humidity, and a slight airflow.
Extreme heat disrupts the body's balance mechanism
Stating that extreme heat strains the body's heat regulation system, Prof. Haydar Sur said, “Extreme heat can lead to many health problems by challenging the body's mechanisms for maintaining thermal balance. The human body tries to cool itself through sweating; however, when high temperature and humidity increase, this mechanism cannot be effective enough. It also consumes body water, causing dehydration. This is called life-threatening dehydration.”
Heart and kidney patients are at greater risk
Referring to the most common health problems in extreme heat, Prof. Haydar Sur said, “Dehydration, weakness, fatigue and dizziness, muscle cramps, headache, low blood pressure and fainting, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke are the most frequently encountered conditions. In addition, impaired kidney function may be observed, and existing cardiovascular diseases may worsen. Prolonged exposure to heat can also cause chronic diseases to flare up."
Heatstroke is a condition requiring urgent intervention
Stating that heatstroke develops as a result of the body's heat regulation mechanism becoming completely inadequate, Prof. Sur continued:
“In heatstroke, body temperature usually rises above 40 degrees Celsius. Severe headache, high fever, confusion, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, rapid pulse, increased respiration, hot and dry skin or excessive sweating, convulsions, and loss of consciousness may be observed. In cases of loss of consciousness, seizures, respiratory distress, shock, or signs of organ failure, a healthcare institution should be consulted without delay."
Sun should be avoided between 11:00 and 16:00
Stating that those working outdoors and exercising should be more careful, Prof. Haydar Sur said, “Our citizens should especially avoid staying under direct sunlight for long periods between 11:00 and 16:00. Physical activities should be done early in the morning or during cool evening hours. Light-colored, loose-fitting, and cotton clothes should be preferred, and wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses should be used. Rest in shaded areas at regular intervals and consume water without waiting to feel thirsty. Heavy exercises should be avoided on excessively hot days, and sunscreen products should not be neglected.”
2-3 liters of water should be consumed daily in hot weather
Pointing out the great importance of fluid consumption in hot weather, Prof. Haydar Sur said, "It is recommended for healthy adults to consume approximately 2-3 liters of water per day. This amount may further increase for those engaging in intense physical activity and working outdoors. Water should be drunk without waiting to feel thirsty, and minerals lost through sweating should be replenished with beverages like ayran, kefir, or mineral water."
Stating that sugary drinks should be avoided, Prof. Sur said, "Caffeinated and alcoholic beverages should not be preferred, especially on extremely hot days, as they can increase fluid loss. Darkening of urine color is an important indicator of dehydration."
Risk groups should be more careful
Emphasizing that the elderly, children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic diseases are more affected by hot weather, Prof. Haydar Sur said, "These individuals should not go out during the hottest hours of the day, consume fluids regularly, keep their home environment cool, and eat light meals. Individuals with heart, kidney, diabetes, or respiratory diseases should be more vigilant regarding symptoms. Fluid intake of elderly individuals, in particular, should be monitored by their relatives."
Air conditioners should be operated between 23-26 degrees Celsius
Offering recommendations to stay cool at home, Prof. Sur said, "Curtains should be kept closed during the day, and the house should be ventilated during cool morning and evening hours. Unnecessary use of electrical devices should be reduced, light clothes should be preferred, and warm showers can be taken."
Addressing points to consider when using air conditioners, Prof. Sur said, "Air conditioners should be set between 23-26 degrees Celsius, their filters should be cleaned regularly, and cold air should not be blown directly at people. Sudden temperature changes should be avoided. Fans, however, may not be sufficient on their own when the environment is very hot. Especially for elderly individuals, direct airflow should not be created for long periods."
First aid in heatstroke can save lives
Stating that first aid administered to a person experiencing heatstroke is of great importance, Prof. Haydar Sur said, "The person should immediately be moved to a shaded or cool environment, excess clothing should be removed, and cold compresses should be applied to the neck, armpits, and groin areas. If conscious, water can be given in small sips. A cool shower or wet towel application may also be beneficial."
Prof. Sur warned, "In cases of confusion, fainting, speech impairment, high fever, seizures, severe shortness of breath, persistent vomiting, or inability of the person to take fluids, emergency health services should be sought without delay."
Proper public information is as important as individual precautions
Highlighting the importance of public health communication in combating extreme heat, Prof. Haydar Sur said, "Meteorological heat warnings should be conveyed to citizens in advance, and SMS and mobile app notifications should be used effectively. On risky days, citizens should be informed about heatstroke. Regular information should be provided through television, radio, newspapers, news websites, and social media. Informative posters and brochures should be placed in healthcare institutions, and municipalities should also inform citizens through digital screens, public transport, and loudspeaker announcements."
Prof. Sur concluded his remarks as follows:
"Messages should be short and understandable. Simple but effective warnings such as 'Do not go out unless necessary between 11:00 and 16:00', 'Drink water without waiting to feel thirsty', 'Regularly check on your elderly relatives', 'If dizziness, confusion, or high fever develops, consult a healthcare institution' play an important role in protecting public health. Extreme heat brings with it health problems that can be life-threatening, especially for risk groups. However, with correct information and simple protective measures, society's resilience to heatwaves can be increased.”
