By Gbenga Gbelee
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (MiMET) has predicted that a good
number of Nigerians would likely experience what it called “above danger
heat stress” this year due to the combination of heat and humidity.
In its 2017 Seasonal Rainfall Prediction, NiMet, said uncontrolled exposure
to the heat for too long could cause heat stress which may, in turn, lead to
several illnesses collectively called “hyperthermia”.
The agency noted that people in the older age bracket could have a tough
time dealing with the heat and humidity, as most people who die from
hyperthermia globally each year were over 50 years.
NiMet highlighted some of the heat related complications to include heat
syncope, heat cramps, heat edema, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, adding
that Nigerians were no exception.
According to the agency, heat syncope is a sudden dizziness that can
happen when one is active outdoors under hot weather condition.
The agency said Heat cramps are the painful tightening of muscles in your
stomach, arms or legs which can result from hard work while Heat
exhaustion is- a warning that the body can no longer keep itself cool
thereby resulting in thirst, dizziness, weakness and uncontrolled
perspiration.
NiMet warned that older people and people who become dehydrated or
those with chronic diseases or alcoholism are at most risk.