Stay Healthy During the Hot Season

Know About Drugs with Chula Pharmacists: Stay Healthy During the Hot Season

Monday, March 24, 2025, 6:00 a.m.

April is approaching, bringing the intense summer heat. Seasonal changes can introduce new health risks or exacerbate existing conditions, making it essential to prepare for summer-related illnesses.

Common Summer Health Issues

Hot weather and high humidity contribute to several health problems. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Skin Problems: Sunburn

Thailand's strong sun can be harsh on the skin. Sunburn occurs when the skin is exposed to UV rays for too long without protection. Symptoms include redness, heat, pain, and peeling after 2-3 days. Severe cases may involve blisters and headaches.

Prevention & Relief:

Apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) and reapply every two hours.

Wear protective clothing, use an umbrella, and wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.

Avoid direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Stay hydrated to maintain skin moisture.

Treat sunburn with cold compresses, aloe vera gel, and fragrance-free moisturizers. Avoid picking at peeling skin or popping blisters to prevent infection.

2. Heatstroke & Dehydration

Heatstroke occurs when the body overheats and loses its ability to regulate temperature. Symptoms include flushed skin, dizziness, a rapid heartbeat, and fainting.

Prevention:

Avoid prolonged sun exposure.

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Wear lightweight, breathable clothing.

Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which contribute to dehydration.

3. Food Poisoning & Digestive Issues

Hot weather accelerates food spoilage, increasing the risk of food poisoning. Symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.

Prevention:

Eat freshly cooked food and store leftovers properly.

Ensure food is hygienic and stored in cool places.

Impact on Chronic Disease Patients

The summer heat can worsen symptoms for those with chronic conditions.

1. Heart Disease & High Blood Pressure

Hot weather forces the heart to work harder to regulate body temperature, potentially leading to blood pressure fluctuations and increased risk of heart attacks or heatstroke.

Tips:

Stay cool and hydrated.

Monitor blood pressure regularly.

Avoid intense outdoor activities during peak heat hours.

2. Diabetes

Heat can cause blood sugar fluctuations due to increased sweating and urination, leading to dehydration.

Tips:

Check blood sugar levels more frequently.

Store insulin and medications in a cool place.

Avoid excessive consumption of high-sugar fruits.

3. Respiratory Diseases (Asthma, Emphysema)

Hot temperatures and pollution make breathing more difficult. Thick mucus can obstruct airways, increasing the risk of flare-ups.

Tips:

Stay in well-ventilated areas.

Use an air purifier if necessary.

Always carry a bronchodilator.

4. Chronic Kidney Disease

Excessive sweating can strain the kidneys, increasing the risk of dehydration and acute kidney failure.

Tips:

Drink adequate water as recommended by a doctor.

Limit salty foods.

Avoid prolonged sun exposure.

5. Neurological Conditions (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Epilepsy)

People with neurological disorders may have difficulty sensing thirst or heat, making them vulnerable to dehydration and heatstroke.

Tips for Caregivers:

Encourage regular water intake.

Keep them in a cool environment.

Seek medical help if dizziness or confusion occurs.

Final Thoughts

Hot weather poses various health risks, especially for those with chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and respiratory issues. Staying hydrated, avoiding extreme heat, and monitoring symptoms can help prevent complications. If you have any concerns, consult a pharmacist or reach out to the Guruya Drug Information Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chulalongkorn University, via Line @guruya.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nattada Areepiam and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bodin Tiwasuwan

Faculty of Pharmacy Chulalongkorn University

Contact :	254 Phaya Thai Road, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
	02-218-8257
	Email: info@pharm.chula.ac.th