Medical experts have warned Nigerians against getting apprehensive in the face of the present heat wave across Nigeria, but rather take requisite precautions to prevent dehydration.
The experts, who spoke in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria in Calabar, Cross River State had attributed the heat wave to climate change.
The experts had warned that the situation might continue in the coming days, the medical experts begged everyone to ensure that they take adequate water in order to remain hydrated.
Dr Felix Archibong, the Chairman for the Nigeria Medical Association, NMA, Cross River chapter and Dr Ezekiel Edino, the Medical Director at General Hospital, Igbokoda, Ondo State, both agreed that the heat wave might come with some illness but only in a situation of dehydration.
They listed heightened respiratory issues and increased vulnerability to chronic conditions as the possible ailment to be caused by the heat wave.
Archibong also said that dehydration may cause headaches, fatigue, muscle cramps, and dizziness.
Edino own his part explained that dehydration could lead to more grievous problems like heat exhaustion, heat stroke, skin infection, mental health and even death if left unattended to.
The heat wave could also cause lead to spontaneous abortion in early pregnancy, preterm contractions and general discomfort.
The medical director also attributed the gradual depletion in the ozone layer and environmental pollution to be responsible for the heat wave.
Thankfully, both medical experts have remarked that there have been no record of ailment associated with the heat wave in their hospitals.
In a separate report, NAN announced that the air temperature hit about 41°C over the North and 39°C over the South.
