때이른 폭염, 장시간 노출시 온열•정신질환 위험↑

This summer, South Korea issued heatwave warnings earlier than ever before, so people are concerned about the effects heat can have on their health.
Our Choi Si-young spoke with an expert to find out more.
Heatwaves can cause several health problems,... most notably heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Heat exhaustion is a direct result of the body overheating and is identifiable by symptoms such as muscle cramps, excessive sweating and cool skin. Staying hydrated is the key to lessening its severity. If heat exhaustion goes unaddressed, heat stroke follows. Heat stroke is a much more serious condition and requires emergency treatment.
"Loss of consciousness and multiple organ failure occur during heat stroke and can lead to death. The most important thing to do is to drop the body's core temperature."
"The heatwave can harm your body in many ways, and not just physically. Experts say it can also trigger mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression."
"Heatwave causes sweating and dizziness that can bring on anxiety. The high temperatures raise stress levels and lower the capability to cope with it, inviting depression."
And health professionals say it is difficult to tell whether your anxiety or depression is the result of the hot weather.
They recommend consulting with a doctor immediately if you're worried about your mental health.
Physicians say,... staying hydrated and keeping cool is key to prevent these illnesses.
Choi Si-young, Arirang News.