In these hot days, pregnant women are at risk of heat exhaustion
and its symptoms include excessive sweating, pale complexion, general weakness, dizziness, headaches, nausea, and muscle and body pain.
We advise pregnant women to avoid exposure to high temperatures and direct sunlight, and it is preferable not to leave the house during heat waves unless absolutely necessary.
It is normal for a pregnant woman’s body temperature to be higher than that of an average person, which makes her feel more fatigued and prone to heat exhaustion than others. This affects her psychological and physical well-being, especially during the summer months.
Symptoms include excessive sweating, general weakness, pale complexion, dizziness, headaches, nausea, muscle pain, and vertigo. If a pregnant woman experiences dizziness and falls, it may lead to more complications, including premature birth and general risks to the fetus. “Therefore, she must pay attention to these symptoms throughout the summer.”
If you feel heat exhaustion, what to do
- Pregnant women who feel they have a fever should take the same steps that others should follow, but with more caution, such as
- Moving to a cooler place.
- For bathing and reducing clothing.
- Using wet clothes on the skin.
- Sitting in a cold bathtub for a long time while drinking fluids, especially water.
Ladies who are experiencing vomiting, severe symptoms, or symptoms that last more than one hour should seek immediate medical treatment and replenish lost fluids.
What are the general tips for pregnant women to avoid stress and heat exhaustion?
- Drink water and fluids, at least 10 cups of fluids daily.
- Stay completely away from pickles, salty foods, caffeine, and carbonated drinks.
- Increasing the consumption of fruits and vegetables that contain a good amount of water, such as grapes, apples, and guavas.
- Try to stay away from citrus fruits as much as possible or not to overindulge in them.
- Taking a warm bath for a feeling of refreshment.
- Wear light-colored, lightweight cotton clothes during the summer months.
- If you are exposed to extreme heat, apply cold compresses immediately.
- It is important to ensure proper ventilation in the space and to maintain the room temperature between 24 to 26 degrees.
- Moisturizing the skin with natural moisturizers and avoiding creams.
- Not making any effort while feeling hot.
- If you have to go out, you should wear comfortable shoes and don’t forget your water bottle.
