Warning from experts: 'Do not stay in the sun, do not let your body become dehydrated'

Dicle University (DÜ) Faculty of Medicine Hospital Chief Physician Prof. Dr. Mehmet Ata Akıl in Diyarbakır stated that in order to avoid being negatively affected by the temperatures that have been above seasonal norms recently, those in high-risk groups—specifically patients, pregnant women, the elderly, and children—should not go outside between 10:00 and 16:00.

Explaining that fluid loss is the first thing that comes to mind when talking about heat, Akıl stated that plenty of fluids should be consumed during hot weather.

Pointing out that children and the elderly in particular must be very careful about fluid loss, Akıl said they recommend that these age groups do not stay under the sun for long periods between 10:00 and 16:00.

Akıl spoke as follows:

"In hot weather, there are also some illnesses that we can call 'air conditioning sickness' that can occur when staying under air conditioning for long periods, and one needs to be careful about these as well. Those who stay in the sun for long periods must consume plenty of fluids. They should ensure they find shade as often as possible. In this way, they need to try to minimize exposure to the sun. Those who will be exposed to the sun for a long time or those working under the sun should wear light-colored and breathable clothing, and use an umbrella if possible. We recommend consuming 2.5 liters of fluid a day even in normal life. During this summer period, 3 to 3.5 liters of fluid should be consumed."

Stating that headaches, weakness, and fatigue usually occur in those who stay under the sun for a long time, Akıl expressed that in such cases, one must definitely consult a hospital.

Akıl said, "Agricultural workers, and those working in markets or on highways need to be much more careful. They are exposed to the sun for long periods. In cases of long-term exposure, if fluid consumption also decreases in the individual, it creates a risk."

DÜ Faculty of Medicine Cardiology Department faculty member Prof. Dr. Faruk Ertaş advised citizens not to go outside during the noon hours when the sun is at its peak unless it is mandatory.

Stating that the region, especially Diyarbakır, Şanlıurfa, Batman, and Mardin, is being exposed to temperatures well above seasonal norms, Ertaş said, "The rise in heat can lead to heatstroke because when the body's temperature rises too much, the body's defense mechanisms become insufficient as a result. This causes very serious fluid loss. Fluid loss can also have fatal consequences."

Explaining that heatstroke should be taken seriously and that one should be careful against it, Ertaş emphasized that heatstroke can also have fatal consequences.

Noting that excessively strenuous activities should be avoided in hot weather, Ertaş said, "Strenuous activity can also lead to fluid loss. Those who have to work outside should stay in the shade, wear a hat if necessary, and use sunglasses. They need to significantly reduce their exposure to sunlight."

News Source: AA