It’s getting hot in here! How to beat Malaysia’s heat

 

It is important for Malaysians to keep hydrated during the current heatwave. (Rawpixel pic)

PETALING JAYA: If you constantly find yourself saying, “It’s so hot!” these last few days, don’t worry, it isn’t just you – the blazing heat is due to the southwest monsoon Malaysia is currently facing.

The heatwave has also made its way to the Tokyo Olympics. This year’s Games is said to be one of the hottest to date, with temperatures reaching as high as 34°C.

The organisers already have to cope with Covid-19, and the climate has only added to their stress. They have had to reschedule certain track and field events, rugby matches, and mountain-biking competitions to times of the day that are more suitable for athletes to compete to the best of their ability.

Russian archer Svetlana Gomboev, Australian kayaker Jo Brigden-Jones, American sprinter Michael Norman, and tennis world champions Novak Djokovic and Daniil Medvedev are just some of the many athletes who have sweltered and suffered in Tokyo.

The organisers have resorted to mist-spraying stations and cooling vests, among other measures, while handing out salt tablets and ice-cream to volunteers.

World no 2 tennis player Daniil Medvedev cools down between gameplay in Tokyo. (AP pic)

Closer to home, Dr Lim Geng Yan, medical director of Jasper Healthcare, advises Malaysians to take precautionary measures for avoiding heat-related illnesses if they have to venture out into the sun.

“Strenuous activities that involve exposure to heat can lead to dehydration, which would lead to high body temperatures and, if not managed, heatstroke,” he tells FMT.

Before reaching that point, warning signs include nausea, vomiting, flushed skin, rapid breathing, and an altered mental state.

Lim emphasises the importance of keeping hydrated, and recommends wearing loose and light clothing, as well as sunscreen, to minimise the effects of the heat.

“It is best to avoid consuming alcoholic beverages during this time as alcohol causes dehydration,” he adds.

He further says Malaysians can protect themselves by not staying outdoors for extended periods, avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun, and exercising indoors whenever possible.

It is not advisable to exercise outdoors during the day as it increases exposure to the sun. (Rawpixel pic)

And while it is certainly possible – and probable – that most Malaysians will perspire even when indoors and have to take frequent showers, Lim says this is actually a good way to cool off.

“Taking cold showers, or showers at room temperature, is good as heat will be dispersed from the body,” he advises.

Finally, Lim cautions those with heart issues to take it easy and not strain themselves during these hot days.

Children, too, should be careful as “they have less developed sweat glands and are more fragile compared with adults”, which puts them at higher risk of experiencing heat-related symptoms.

The good news is that the southwest monsoon is expected to end by the middle of next month. Until then, Malaysians will just have to drink plenty of fluids, keep indoors – an upside to being at home during lockdown – and indulge in an ice-cream or two every so often to beat the heat. - FMT