Number of heat-related patients jumps over 70 percent: How to stay safe during extreme heat

With heat wave advisories issued across South Korea — from Seoul on Monday to other regions like Incheon, Suwon, Gangwon and South Chungcheong by Wednesday — oppressive heat and humidity continue to grip the country. Such weather puts added stress on the body’s ability to regulate its temperature, raising the risk of heat-related illnesses including heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heatstroke. Experts advise checking the weather forecast before any outdoor activity, and staying indoors on days with heat wave alerts. Drinking plenty of water and wearing lightweight, breathable clothing can also help prevent heat-related conditions. According to the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, 27,248 patients were treated for heat-related illnesses in 2024 — up about 74 percent from 15,638 cases in 2022. These conditions, triggered by prolonged exposure to high temperatures, include heat exhaustion, heat cramps and the more dangerous heatstroke. Heatstroke is a medical emergency caused by the failure of the hypothalamus — the brain’s temperature regulation center. SymptomsWeiter zum vollständigen Artikel bei Korea Times Weiter zum vollständigen Artikel bei Korea Times