Turkish Health Ministry Warns Citizens About Heatstroke Amid Rising Temperatures

The Director of Health in Turkey’s Denizli province has issued a statement warning citizens about the dangers of heatstroke and improper use of air conditioning as summer temperatures continue to rise.

Dr. Berna Öztürk, a specialist and the province’s health director, stated that high temperatures can pose serious risks to the elderly, children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic illnesses. She highlighted the potential for heatstroke, fainting, and skin burns.

She added: “Heatstroke is a serious medical emergency that occurs when the body is exposed to high temperatures for extended periods, coupled with dehydration or excessive physical activity, leading to the body’s inability to regulate its temperature.”

According to Dr. Öztürk, “Symptoms include extremely high body temperature (40°C or above), sudden headache and dizziness, excessive sweating or cessation of sweating, rapid heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, dry and hot skin, palpitations, confusion, fainting, or even seizures.”

She stressed: “When these symptoms are observed, immediate action must be taken. The affected person should be moved to a cool place, have their clothing loosened or removed, and their body cooled using wet towels, cold water, fans, or air conditioning.”

She added: “If the person is unconscious, do not give them fluids orally, and transport them immediately to the nearest healthcare center. In some cases, it may be necessary to clear the airway and perform artificial respiration.”

Dr. Öztürk emphasized that the most vulnerable groups during heatwaves include: individuals over 65, people with disabilities, those living alone, children under the age of four, pregnant women, people who are overweight, outdoor workers, those with chronic illnesses, and people on regular medication—especially those taking blood pressure medication, antidepressants, or sleeping pills.

She advised that, for prevention, people should avoid going outside between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., drink plenty of water, avoid beverages high in caffeine and sugar, and wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.

Dr. Öztürk also warned against the careless use of air conditioning, saying: “Sudden changes in temperature can lead to respiratory infections (such as colds, sore throat, sinusitis), muscle cramps, neck and back pain, asthma attacks, and allergic reactions.”

She added that failure to regularly clean air conditioner filters could lead to the growth of Legionella bacteria, which can cause the dangerous Legionnaires’ disease.

She concluded by advising that “the air conditioner should not be set too cold compared to the outdoor temperature. It is best to keep it between 23-26°C, and prolonged direct exposure to cold air from the unit should be avoided.”