Tengrinews.kz — Abnormal heat is expected across Kazakhstan. In some regions, temperatures have already soared to 45 degrees Celsius, while Almaty health officials report a twofold increase in heatstroke cases. Tengrinews.kz spoke with a public health expert about which symptoms should not be ignored and how to protect oneself during the heatwave.
Number of emergency calls on the rise
According to Kazhydromet, most of Kazakhstan continues to experience extreme heat ranging from +33 to +40 degrees, while in the south and southwest, temperatures are reaching as high as +45°C.
The Almaty Public Health Department reported that the abnormal heat has led to a surge in emergency calls from residents.
In the first two weeks of July alone, the ambulance service received more than 33,600 calls.
"Of those, about 1,500 were related to high blood pressure, and over 300 were due to cardiovascular diseases, including myocardial infarction. Approximately 50 patients with acute cerebrovascular accidents were rushed to city hospitals. Compared to the previous period, the number of heatstroke cases requiring emergency medical intervention has doubled," the department stated.
Body response to heat and high-risk groups
Zhanar Tyulyubayeva, Director of the Department of Hygiene and Health Protection at the National Center for Public Health, explained the dangers of extreme temperatures.
"During extreme heat, the body can overheat and lose a significant amount of fluid. This leads to dehydration and impairs the function of the heart, kidneys, and brain. A person can quickly become fatigued, weak, and may lose consciousness. Overheating can be life-threatening," the expert explained.
Those at highest risk include:
- children under 5 years of age,
- seniors over 65,
- pregnant women,
- individuals with heart, vascular, kidney, or lung diseases, and those with diabetes.
The expert specifically highlighted those who work outdoors or perform heavy physical labor in the heat. They are advised to shift intensive work to morning or evening hours when possible, take regular breaks in the shade or cool rooms, drink plenty of water, wear light-colored clothing and a hat, and closely monitor their well-being.
If dizziness, weakness, nausea, or other signs of overheating occur, work must be stopped immediately, and medical assistance should be sought.
"People with chronic conditions need special attention"
The expert emphasized that heat exacerbates many chronic illnesses. For those with heart conditions, the load on the cardiovascular system increases; for those with diabetes, the risk of dehydration and blood sugar fluctuations rises; and for those with kidney disease, the body struggles more to maintain water balance.
"You should not change medication dosages or stop taking them on your own. If you have questions or your condition worsens, contact your physician. If you have friends or relatives in these categories, try to check on their condition or visit them during hot days," Tyulyubayeva urged.
Heat increases the risk of other illnesses
The Almaty Public Health Department confirmed that the heat primarily impacts the cardiovascular system.
"High air temperatures can trigger sharp spikes in blood pressure, heart rhythm disturbances, and shortness of breath, as well as increase the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke," noted Azamat Kurmanbekov, acting deputy director of the Almaty Emergency Medical Service.
The agency also warned that heat increases the risk of dehydration, food poisoning, intestinal infections, and the worsening of seasonal allergies.
In cases of severe headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, confusion, high fever, or loss of consciousness, it is necessary to call an ambulance.
Photo: depositphotos.com
Heatstroke vs. Sunstroke
As Tyulyubayeva notes, the first signs of both conditions are extreme weakness, headache, dizziness, nausea, high body temperature, skin redness, rapid heartbeat, and confusion or loss of consciousness.
"Heatstroke occurs when the body overheats and can no longer maintain a normal temperature on its own. Without timely assistance, heatstroke can lead to damage to the brain, heart, kidneys, and other vital organs, and in severe cases, it can be fatal," the Ministry of Health explained.
In cases of heatstroke or sunstroke, loss of consciousness, seizures, or a sharp decline in physical condition, emergency services must be called immediately..
First Aid: How to save a life before the ambulance arrives
If a passerby or a loved one has overheated but remains conscious, Zhanar Tyulyubayeva recommends the following steps:
- Move them to the shade or a cool room;
- Remove excess clothing;
- Apply wet towels to the head, neck, and armpits;
- Provide cool water in small sips.
"It is strictly forbidden to force someone in critical condition to move or to give them medications without supervision. Elderly people and patients with heart disease should never be abruptly immersed in ice-cold water without medical oversight," the expert warned.
Dangerous overheating can be triggered by more than just heat and sun. Doctors also cite high humidity, physical exertion, dehydration, alcohol, tight dark clothing, and stuffy rooms as significant risk factors.
Heatwaves: Expert Recommendations
Hydration Guidelines: What to Drink and What to Avoid
The average adult requires approximately 2–3 liters of fluid per day during a heatwave. Plain drinking water, unsweetened tea, and still mineral water are the best options. Meanwhile, alcohol, energy drinks, sugary sodas, and strong coffee should be avoided, as they only accelerate dehydration.
However, the expert warns that consuming excessive amounts of water can also be dangerous.
"Consuming a large volume of water in a short period can lead to hyponatremia. This is a dangerous drop in blood sodium levels that, in severe cases, can cause cerebral edema. The risk increases if a person drinks 3-4 liters of water within a few hours, especially if done very quickly without replenishing electrolyte losses," said Zhanar Tyulyubayeva.
According to the expert, the simplest indicator of fluid balance is urine color. A light-yellow color indicates normal hydration, while dark yellow signals that the body urgently needs water.
In hot weather, it is better to opt for light meals that do not strain the body. Unless allergies are present, the diet should include more fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs, and lean dishes. Heavy, fatty, spicy, and overly salty foods should be limited, particularly during the hottest hours of the day.
When to go outside and how to dress
The most dangerous period, according to the expert, is from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. If going outdoors is necessary, Tyulyubayeva recommends following several rules:
- Stay in the shade;
- Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics;
- Wear a hat and sunglasses;
- Carry water with you.
"It is important to check the UV index in weather forecasts. This should become a routine habit for everyone," the expert added.
Photo: depositphotos.com
What to avoid during hot weather
Expert Tyulyubayeva also listed the most common mistakes people make during a heatwave, many of which may seem harmless.
- First: drinking ice-cold water. This causes vascular spasms and sore throats; it is better to drink cool water.
- Second: sitting directly under an air conditioner set to a very low temperature. The sharp contrast between outdoor and indoor temperatures can lead to a cold. The temperature difference should not be excessive.
- Third: ignoring thirst. You should drink regularly without waiting for an intense sensation of thirst.
- Fourth: ignoring muscle spasms during physical activity.
"Muscle spasms and cramps in the arms, legs, or abdomen during physical activity in the heat are early signs of electrolyte loss due to heavy sweating. In this case, you should stop the activity, move to the shade, and replenish not just water but salts—for example, with water containing a small amount of salt or specialized electrolyte solutions," the expert explained.
- Fifth: leaving children, the elderly, or pets in a locked car, even for a few minutes.
"Pets must also be protected during heatwaves: walk them in the early morning or evening, avoid asphalt at the height of the day (it heats up significantly and burns paws), and ensure constant access to water and shade. Signs of overheating in animals include heavy breathing, lethargy, and refusal to move," Tyulyubayeva said.
Key takeaway
To better cope with the heat, try to stay in cool environments and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, especially between 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Drink plenty of water even if you do not feel thirsty, and avoid alcohol and sugary carbonated drinks, as they contribute to dehydration. Wear lightweight clothing made of natural fabrics, a hat, and sunglasses, and apply sunscreen before going outside.
Special attention should be paid to children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with chronic conditions, as they are most vulnerable to overheating. It is also helpful to monitor weather forecasts, including UV radiation levels, to take necessary protective measures in advance.