Heatstroke Lurks in Apartments Too
Temperatures exceed 40 degrees, and Dr. Milan Dimitrijević from the 'Zvezdara' Health Center reveals how to distinguish sunstroke from heatstroke and who is most at risk.
Temperatures exceed 40 degrees, and Dr. Milan Dimitrijević from the 'Zvezdara' Health Center reveals how to distinguish sunstroke from heatstroke and who is most at risk.
As a heatwave grips Serbia and temperatures exceed 40 degrees, doctors warn that danger lurks not only outdoors. Heatstroke, a life-threatening condition, can also occur in enclosed, overheated spaces such as apartments without air conditioning, cars, or workplaces. Dr. Milan Dimitrijević from the 'Zvezdara' Health Center explained to Kurir the key differences between sunstroke and heatstroke and offered a range of tips on how to protect yourself.
Although many people equate them, sunstroke and heatstroke are two distinct conditions. Dr. Dimitrijević clarifies that sunstroke occurs exclusively outdoors, due to the direct effect of the sun's rays on an unprotected head. "Sunstroke is most often accompanied by severe headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, ringing in the ears, and elevated body temperature," said Dr. Dimitrijević.
On the other hand, heatstroke is far more dangerous and occurs due to overheating of the entire body from high temperature and humidity, even without direct sun exposure. "In heatstroke, the body's temperature regulation system completely breaks down, sweating stops, and body temperature rises above 40 degrees Celsius," the doctor warned. It is recognized by red, hot, and dry skin, rapid pulse, confusion, muscle cramps, and possible loss of consciousness, and it constitutes a medical emergency.
Particularly vulnerable groups include children, the elderly, and chronic patients. As Dr. Dimitrijević points out, children heat up three to five times faster than adults due to their underdeveloped temperature regulation system. "They produce less sweat, making it harder for them to cool down naturally," he said. He also warned of the deadly danger of leaving a child in a parked car. "A child should never be left in a parked car, even for a short time, because the temperature inside the vehicle quickly reaches life-threatening levels," he emphasized.
High temperatures are especially dangerous for chronic patients. "In cardiovascular patients, high temperatures cause blood vessels to dilate and blood pressure to drop, which in people using hypertension therapy can trigger collapse or fainting," explained Dr. Dimitrijević. He added that increased sweating thickens the blood and raises the risk of blood clots, myocardial infarction, and stroke. In diabetics, high temperatures accelerate fluid loss and can lead to elevated blood glucose levels, and diabetes can damage sweat glands, making it harder for the body to cool down.
One of the biggest mistakes people make during heatwaves is abruptly transitioning from an air-conditioned space to extreme heat. "Sudden transition from an air-conditioned space to very hot air can trigger bronchospasm and choking attacks," the doctor warned. He recommends that the difference between outdoor temperature and air-conditioned space should not exceed 7 to 10 degrees. Rooms should be ventilated at night and early morning, and during the day, blinds and curtains should be drawn.
During hot days, it is recommended to consume two to three liters of fluids, primarily water, lemonade, and mild herbal teas. "Carbonated drinks, alcohol, and caffeine should be avoided because they promote fluid loss and contribute to dehydration," advises Dr. Dimitrijević. Direct sun exposure should be avoided between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Regarding diet, opt for light meals and avoid fatty, fried, and heavily spiced foods. "Fruits and vegetables with high water content, as well as soups and light broths, help replenish fluids, minerals, and electrolytes," he said.
Dr. Dimitrijević specifically warns chronic patients never to change or discontinue their therapy without consulting a doctor. "If blood pressure is consistently lower than usual during extreme heat, it is necessary to consult your primary care physician for possible therapy adjustment," he stated. Medications should be stored at temperatures up to 25 degrees or according to manufacturer instructions. People with diabetes should check their blood sugar levels more frequently because dehydration and high temperatures can significantly affect glycemic control.
Although these tips were provided in response to the heatwave in Serbia, they are equally applicable in Croatia, where similar weather conditions are common during the summer, and the health risks are identical.
