During the hot season, special attention should be paid to the health of the elderly and children. Photo: Provided.

The hot season is becoming increasingly complex in many provinces and cities, most severe in the Southern and Central Highlands regions. Widespread hot weather not only causes discomfort but also negatively impacts public health.

One of the most common problems is food poisoning. High temperatures cause food to spoil more easily, and bacteria multiply faster. If you eat unhygienic food, you may experience stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, or even life-threatening conditions.

Common causes include: food left out in the open for too long, unsanitary food stalls, and improper food storage. Heatstroke occurs when the body is exposed to high temperatures for an extended period, especially in direct sunlight. This is a dangerous condition that can cause brain damage if not treated promptly. Signs include: dizziness, headache, nausea, red and burning skin, and possibly fainting.

During hot weather, the body sweats a lot, leading to dehydration. If you don't replenish enough water, you'll feel tired, have a dry mouth, and feel dizzy. In more severe cases, it can cause electrolyte imbalance, affecting the cardiovascular and nervous systems.

Hot weather creates favorable conditions for bacteria to thrive, increasing the risk of illnesses such as diarrhea and gastroenteritis. Common symptoms include frequent bowel movements, abdominal pain, and fatigue. These illnesses are common in both children and adults if food and drink hygiene is poor.

Hot weather makes skin more vulnerable to damage. Some common conditions include prickly heat (red, itchy rash) and dermatitis (irritation, redness, and peeling). The main causes are sweat, dirt, and bacteria accumulating on the skin.

Dengue fever is also a dangerous disease that often breaks out during the hot season , transmitted by mosquitoes. High temperatures and humid environments create favorable conditions for mosquitoes to breed. Symptoms include: sudden high fever, headache, muscle pain, and possibly bleeding.

Excessive use of air conditioning during hot weather can easily cause sore throats or respiratory infections. The sudden temperature change between indoors and outdoors makes it difficult for the body to adapt.

In summary, hot weather poses many health risks, but these are entirely preventable if we pay attention to our daily habits. Understanding common illnesses will help you and your family proactively protect yourselves better. To maintain good health during hot weather, everyone needs to proactively change their daily habits. The sweltering heat not only causes fatigue but also increases the risk of illnesses such as heatstroke, dehydration, and food poisoning. It's essential to drink enough water every day.

When it's hot, the body loses water very quickly through sweat. Therefore, staying hydrated is extremely important. You should drink 2-3 liters of water per day. Drink regularly, don't wait until you're thirsty to drink. You can supplement with fruit juice, coconut water, or electrolyte drinks. Avoid sugary drinks or stimulants like soda and coffee, as these can cause further dehydration.

Maintain good hygiene and a balanced diet. Eat cooked food and drink boiled water. Limit consumption of food left exposed to the air for extended periods. Prioritize fresh foods, green vegetables, and fruits. Store food properly in the refrigerator. A balanced diet will boost immunity and fight off illness. Try to limit outdoor activities, especially during intense sunlight. The period from 10 am to 4 pm is when temperatures are highest, making sunstroke more likely. If you must go outside, wear a hat, sun-protective clothing, sunglasses, and a face mask. Find a shady spot to rest when you feel tired.

How can you keep your body cool? Wear loose, breathable clothing that absorbs sweat. Shower daily. Use a fan or air conditioner appropriately. However, avoid setting the room temperature too low or making sudden temperature changes, as this can cause a sore throat or a cold.

At the same time, it's important to increase physical activity. Even in hot weather, everyone should maintain a habit of exercising to improve their health. Exercise in the early morning or late afternoon. Choose gentle exercises such as walking or yoga. Physical activity helps the body become more flexible, increases resistance, and reduces fatigue.

The hot season is when bacteria and insects thrive, easily causing diseases like dengue fever. Some things to do include washing hands frequently with soap, keeping the house clean, preventing stagnant water (where mosquitoes breed), and sleeping under a mosquito net to avoid mosquito bites.

During hot weather, high temperatures can make it difficult to sleep, leading to fatigue. It's important to get 7-8 hours of sleep each day, keep your bedroom cool and well-ventilated, and limit phone use before bed. Good sleep helps boost the body's immune system.

If you experience symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, or extreme fatigue, it could be a sign of dehydration or heatstroke. In that case, you should immediately rest in a cool place, drink water slowly, and seek assistance if your condition does not improve.