ILOILO City – The Department of Health (DOH) in Western Visayas has issued an urgent public health warning as temperatures begin to climb, cautioning that heat-related illnesses — from mild cramps to life-threatening heat stroke — are expected to rise in the coming weeks.
With the onset of the dry season, health officials stressed that prolonged exposure to extreme heat and dehydration can overwhelm the body’s ability to regulate temperature, putting people of all ages at risk.
“It is important to recognize the increased risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke — conditions that can have serious and potentially fatal consequences if not promptly addressed,” DOH Region 6 said in a statement.
Heat-related illnesses, collectively known as hyperthermia, occur when the body fails to cool itself effectively under high temperatures.
These conditions range from heat cramps and heat rash to more severe cases such as heat exhaustion, heat syncope, and heat stroke.
Health authorities explained that heat cramps manifest as painful muscle contractions during strenuous activity in hot conditions, often accompanied by dizziness, nausea, or vomiting.
Heat exhaustion, on the other hand, results from prolonged heat exposure and dehydration, causing fatigue, excessive sweating, pale or clammy skin, and in severe cases, fainting.
Heat syncope may lead to sudden loss of consciousness due to extended exposure to heat, while heat stroke — the most dangerous form— can cause confusion, extremely high body temperature exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, hot and dry skin, chest pain, and even convulsions or loss of consciousness.
The DOH-6 also highlighted heat rash, a common condition during hot and humid weather, characterized by itchy red bumps or blisters due to blocked sweat ducts.
To prevent heat-related emergencies, the agency urged the public to adopt protective measures, including avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., staying well-hydrated, and wearing light, breathable clothing.
In case of heat-related emergencies, immediate action is crucial. Health officials advised moving affected individuals to cooler areas, removing excess clothing, applying cool water or ice packs, and ensuring proper air circulation.
Prompt medical attention is necessary if symptoms worsen or if the individual becomes unresponsive.
“We encourage you to review the guidelines provided by the Department of Health to effectively prevent heat-related illnesses. Your health and well-being are our priority,” the department added.
DOH-6 emphasized that public awareness and early intervention remain key in preventing serious complications, urging residents to remain vigilant as the region braces for intensifying summer heat./PN
