Hellfest has never lived up to its name so well: the metal festival expects temperatures flirting with 40°C. Same observation for the Fête de la Musique, which will bring together thousands of people all over France this Sunday in overwhelming heat. Should we therefore give up these unmissable summer events? Not necessarily. But you have to adopt the right reflexes. Dr Gérald Kierzek, emergency doctor, details the risks linked to high heat and the precautions to take to enjoy the party in complete safety.
Staying for hours under the sun is not without consequences
During a concert or festival, the danger does not only come from the temperature displayed by the thermometer. Standing, sometimes crowded in a crowd, with little shade and limited access to water, puts a strain on the body. And this, even in front of his favorite artist.
“There
dehydration can occur quickly, even when you are not practicing intense physical activity”recalls Dr. Gérald Kierzek.
Indeed, the body continually loses water through perspiration but also through breathing. When these losses are not compensated, the first symptoms appear. Dizziness, headache, unusual fatiguee,
Muscle cramps or feeling of weakness should alert you immediately.
“The risk is to evolve towards heat exhaustion, or even towards a real
heat strokea potentially serious medical emergency”underlines the doctor.
In this case, the body is no longer able to maintain its temperature around 37°C. The internal temperature then rises dangerously, which can lead to confusion, loss of consciousness and, in the most severe cases, damage to vital organs.
People suffering from cardiovascular, respiratory, kidney diseases or mental disorders are particularly vulnerable. Extreme heat can in fact aggravate pre-existing pathologies.
Alcohol: the false friend of festival-goers
On site, the reflex often seems obvious: faced with the heat, many are tempted to cool off with a cold beer, often light. However, this habit is far from ideal.
“Contrary to popular belief, alcohol does not quench thirst. On the contrary, it promotes dehydration,” insists Dr Gérald Kierzek.
Alcohol has a diuretic effect which causes the body to eliminate more water through urine. Result: the feeling of thirst increases and the risk of dehydration increases.
Another problem is that alcohol disrupts the natural mechanisms for regulating body temperature. “It promotes hyperthermia and increases the risk of heat stroke“, specifies the doctor.
Warning signs can then appear more quickly:
- Dry mouth;
- Facial redness;
- Dizziness;
- Increased heart rate;
- Significant fatigue or feeling unwell.
Alcohol also increases the skin’s sensitivity to ultraviolet rays and can promote sunburn.
Reflexes to adopt on site to enjoy without danger
To survive until the end, however, a few simple actions can considerably limit the risks.
- The first consists of
drink water regularlyeven without feeling thirsty. Experts recommend always having a water bottle on hand and drinking in small sips throughout the day; - Dr. Gérald Kierzek also advises identifying upon arrival shaded or air-conditioned areas in order to be able to take refuge there regularly.
“It’s a mistake to stay in direct sunlight for several hours in a row. You need to take regular breaks in the cool”he explains. Your cool break! - The choice of outfit counts too. Choose loose, light, light-colored clothing, made of cotton or natural materials that help wick away perspiration. A cap or hat remains essential when exposure to the sun is prolonged;
- Another simple but effective tip:
dampen a t-shirt, a towel or scarf and place it on the back of the neck or head to help cool the body; - On the food side, it is better to bet on light mealsrich in water, like fresh fruits and vegetables, than an American sandwich.
The party’s over: the signs that should make you leave the crowd
However, during a concert or festival, certain symptoms should never be ignored.
Intense thirst, dizziness, sudden weakness, an unusual headache, nausea or even a feeling of anxiety can be the first signs of an overheating body.
In this case, Dr Gérald Kierzek is categorical: “You should immediately move to the shade or a cool place, drink water and do not wait for the symptoms to worsen.”
If the discomfort persists, if the person becomes confused or loses consciousness, you should quickly go to a first aid station or contact the emergency room. Because even during the biggest moments of celebration, the heat remains a risk to be taken seriously.