Hot and Humid Weather Like Steaming Rice Dumplings: Health Agency Urges 3 Tips for Chronic Disease Patients to Prevent Heat Injury

Central News Agency Report

(Central News Agency reporter Chen Jie-Ling, Taipei, June 17) With the Dragon Boat Festival approaching, scorching and humid weather blankets Taiwan, prompting many residents to joke they feel like sticky rice dumplings being steamed in a bamboo basket. The Health Promotion Administration (HPA) warns that patients with chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and kidney disease have weaker abilities to regulate body temperature, making them more vulnerable to heat injury. Following three key preventive measures can help avoid heat-related harm.

The Ministry of Health and Welfare's Health Promotion Administration issued a press release today, reminding the public of health risks associated with high temperatures and oppressive heat. It particularly emphasizes that individuals with chronic illnesses—including high blood pressure, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and kidney disease—are at higher risk due to reduced physiological capacity to regulate heat. Without proper preventive measures, they are more susceptible to heat injury.

The HPA's Community Health Division offers three key tips to prevent heat injury:

First, stay cool through smart dressing and environmental cooling. Wear light-colored, loose, and breathable clothing. When going outdoors, wear wide-brimmed hats, use umbrellas, and wear sunglasses to block UV rays.

Heat injury is not limited to outdoor environments; indoor spaces with high temperatures also pose risks. The HPA advises that even when staying indoors, people should monitor room temperature. Use air conditioning moderately, combined with fans for air circulation, to effectively lower indoor temperatures. Consider visiting air-conditioned public facilities to avoid prolonged exposure to hot, stuffy environments.

Second, replenish fluids appropriately and follow medical advice. The HPA notes that water constitutes about 70% of the human body. People should drink water regularly and not wait until they feel thirsty, as thirst indicates the body is already dehydrated. Avoid beverages containing alcohol or high sugar content, as they may cause the body to lose more fluid.

Notably, patients with chronic conditions such as kidney disease must be cautious with fluid intake. The HPA states that these individuals have limited ability to regulate and excrete fluids. Even during hot weather, they should not excessively consume large amounts of water. It is recommended to consult with a physician in advance to determine a suitable daily water intake and upper limit, adjusting according to individual health conditions to avoid overburdening organs such as the kidneys and compromising health.

Third, stay alert and watch for medication storage and bodily warning signs. The HPA urges the public to pay attention to high-temperature alerts issued by the Central Weather Administration, avoid going out during peak heat, and if necessary, walk in shaded areas and practice sun protection. Additionally, medications commonly used by chronic disease patients—such as antihypertensives and insulin—should not be left in high-temperature environments or hot vehicles, as heat may degrade the drugs and reduce their effectiveness.

The HPA advises that if you or someone nearby shows signs of heat injury—such as elevated body temperature, dry and red skin, or rapid heartbeat—immediately move to a cool, well-ventilated area, loosen clothing, and wipe the body with cool water to lower body temperature. If the person is conscious, offer small sips of cool water with added salt or electrolyte drinks. If symptoms do not improve, seek medical help promptly. (Edited by Zhang Ya-Jing) 1150617