BY RITA OYIBOKA/AMAYINDI YAKUBU
The sun did not rise gently that morning; it arrived with authority, pressing down on zinc roofs and asphalt roads like a weight determined to break something. By noon, the market was already suffocating. Traders fanned themselves with old newspapers, sweat trickled down spines, and the air hung thick, unmoving.
A woman selling tomatoes suddenly staggered, her voice trailing off mid-haggle before she collapsed onto the dusty ground. For a brief moment, the chaos paused, then came the shouting, the scrambling, the frantic search for water.
It was not an isolated incident. It was a sign of a country baking under a heat wave that is no longer just uncomfortable, but dangerous.
A Nation Under Heat Stress
Across Nigeria, rising temperatures have triggered alarm bells, with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) issuing a heat stress alert, urging Nigerians to take precautionary measures as extreme temperatures continue to affect several parts of the country.
In a public safety advisory, the agency warned that prolonged exposure to excessive heat can pose significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, outdoor workers, and individuals with underlying health conditions. According to NEMA, extreme heat can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion and, in severe cases, heatstroke, a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
As temperatures remain high, the agency is advising residents to adopt simple but effective safety practises to protect themselves and others. Nigerians have been urged to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay properly hydrated, even when they do not feel thirsty. Residents are also advised to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, especially during peak heat hours when temperatures are at their highest.
For people whose work requires them to be outdoors, NEMA recommends taking regular breaks in shaded or cool areas to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses. Wearing light clothing and limiting strenuous physical activities during the hottest periods of the day can also help lower the risk.
The agency further emphasised the importance of community vigilance during periods of extreme heat, encouraging citizens to check on vulnerable individuals around them, including elderly neighbours, young children, and people with chronic health conditions. NEMA noted that increased public awareness and preventive actions remain critical in reducing the health risks associated with extreme weather conditions. By staying informed and following safety guidelines, communities can help prevent heat-related emergencies. Residents are advised to monitor updates from NEMA and other public safety authorities as the hot weather conditions persist. But beyond advisories and warnings lies a deeper medical reality that many Nigerians are only beginning to understand.
Heatstroke: The Silent Killer in Plain Sight
Heatstroke is a medical condition. This happens when the human body’s cooling mechanisms are overcome by heat, resulting in a high body temperature, usually about 1040F or 400C in adults and 1050F or 40.50C in children. It is often characterised by fever and then unconsciousness.
Otherwise referred to as sunstroke, this condition is considered a medical emergency. But this condition is different from a fever, where there is a physiological increase in the temperature set point of the body. The term ‘stroke’ in the word heatstroke is a misnomer in that it does not involve a blockage or haemorrhage of blood flow to the brain.
Heatstroke generally presents with a hyperthermia of greater than 40.6°C (105.1°F) in combination with disorientation and a lack of sweating. Before heat stroke occurs, sufferers show signs of heat exhaustion such as dizziness, mental confusion, headaches, and weakness. However, if it occurs when the person is asleep, symptoms may be harder to notice.
A symptom of this condition in young children is seizures, unconsciousness, organ failure, and then death.
With the heat experienced lately, there is a need for caution.
Medical Experts Raise the Alarm
Among the common causes of heatstroke, many medical experts list exposure to a hot environment as a factor.
Heat Wave: Children, Seniors Most at Risk – Igho
A respiratory specialist in the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, Dr Oghenekevwe Igho, explained that one of the most common forms, known as classic or non-exertional heatstroke, occurs when prolonged exposure to hot and humid conditions causes the body’s temperature to spiral out of control.
“In this type of heatstroke, simply staying in a hot environment for extended periods, sometimes over two or three days, can overwhelm the body’s cooling system,” he said. “It is particularly dangerous for older adults and individuals with underlying health conditions.”
He further noted that heatstroke is not limited to passive exposure, stressing that physical exertion in high temperatures can also trigger the condition.
“Exertional heatstroke develops when intense physical activity raises body temperature beyond safe limits,” Igho added. “It is more likely to affect people who are not acclimatised to hot weather but are suddenly exposed to it while working or exercising.”
According to him, certain behaviours and conditions can significantly worsen the risk. Wearing heavy or tight clothing that prevents sweat evaporation, excessive alcohol intake, and dehydration all interfere with the body’s ability to regulate heat. He also pointed out that young people, especially athletes, outdoor labourers, and individuals required to wear heavy protective gear, are not exempt from danger.
“In hot and humid environments, sweating alone is not enough because humidity reduces evaporation, which is the body’s natural cooling mechanism,” he explained.
Igho emphasised that vulnerability to heatstroke varies across age groups. “The body’s ability to cope with extreme heat depends largely on the central nervous system,” he said. “In children, this system is not fully developed, while in older adults, it begins to decline. Both groups also struggle with maintaining proper hydration, which further increases their risk.”
He added that sudden exposure to high temperatures, such as travelling to a hotter region, can also heighten susceptibility. “When the body is not given time to adjust, the chances of heat-related illness increase significantly. People should reduce activity for a few days to allow proper acclimatisation,” he advised, noting that while fans provide some relief, air conditioning remains the most effective way to reduce both heat and humidity.
The physician also cautioned that certain medications may impair the body’s response to heat. “Drugs such as vasoconstrictors, beta blockers, diuretics, and some psychiatric medications can interfere with hydration and temperature regulation, making individuals more vulnerable during extreme heat,” he said.
Heatstroke: How To Recognise Early Symptoms – Okafor
Highlighting warning signs, a public health practitioner based in Agbor, Dr Efe Okafor, said heatstroke often presents with a combination of physical and neurological symptoms. “An abnormally high body temperature is the primary indicator, but patients may also experience nausea and vomiting,” she said. “More severe signs include confusion, agitation, slurred speech, irritability, seizures, and even loss of consciousness.”
She explained that sweating patterns may vary depending on the cause. “In heatstroke caused by environmental exposure, the skin is often hot and dry. However, in exertional cases, the skin may remain moist due to ongoing sweating,” she noted. “Other symptoms include flushed skin, rapid breathing, and an unusually fast heart rate.”
Dr Okafor stressed that prevention remains the most effective strategy. “Simple measures such as staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and recognising early symptoms can significantly reduce risk,” she said.
Unchecked Heat Can Fry Your Brain – Onukwu
On preventive strategies, another medical expert, Dr Chinedu Onukwu, underscored the importance of appropriate clothing and behavioural adjustments during hot weather.
“Light, loose-fitting clothing allows sweat to evaporate and cool the body efficiently,” he said. “Wide-brimmed hats, especially in light colours, help shield the head and neck from direct sunlight.”
He advised limiting strenuous outdoor activities during peak daytime heat and avoiding poorly ventilated spaces. “Hydration is critical. People should drink plenty of fluids, even before they feel thirsty,” he said, adding that urine colour can serve as a practical indicator of hydration levels, with darker shades suggesting dehydration.
On the dangers of neglect, Onukwu warned that heatstroke can quickly escalate into a life-threatening condition. “If the body temperature remains elevated for too long, it can lead to damage of vital organs, including the brain,” he said. “Without prompt intervention, the condition can become fatal.”
On treatment, he explained that the primary objective is rapid cooling of the body to prevent further damage. “Methods include immersion in cold or ice water, the use of cooling blankets, and evaporation techniques where water is sprayed on the skin while air is circulated to enhance cooling,” he said. “Ice packs may also be applied to areas such as the neck, armpits, and groin.”
He added that medical supervision is essential during treatment. “In some cases, medications may be administered to control shivering, as it can raise body temperature and counteract treatment efforts,” Onukwu noted. “Continuous monitoring of heart rate, breathing, and overall stability is crucial until the patient is fully stabilised.”
Extreme Heat Damaging To Kidneys, Heart – Moses
The health implications, however, go far beyond discomfort.
The Pointer, in an interview with Nurse Emmanuel Moses from Maiduguri, revealed the resultant effect of the heat wave on people’s health.
“It can make people tired and fall sick very fast, although this is not normal weather, as you know. It’s climate change that is making it this hot. So, it can cause people to feel exhausted and experience heavy sweating, dry mouth, and all that, which will make someone drink water.
“There are also what we call sweat glands on our bodies. Sweat glands on the skin release water, so when the sweat dries, it takes heat away; that’s what we call evaporative cooling. Currently in Nigeria, because of the heat plus the weather, sweat cannot dry fast. This makes the heart pump much harder, sometimes two to three times faster, to push blood to the skin and make more sweat, and at that, you lose water.
“When you lose water and salt quickly, then that’s where you need to replace them. Your blood gets thick, then your kidneys work overtime trying to compensate, and your whole body starts to overheat. Extreme heat now is one of the causes of lung problems, kidney problems, and even brain problems.”
Emmanuel further explained what heat does to the body: “Sometimes it can kill. So, under heat now, especially this current weather, the chances of a heart attack, especially in those with high blood pressure is very high due to the heart overworking. Then there’s a skin rash, because of heat, infection can spread faster, and then there’s poor sleep, because it will make you feel uncomfortable, and sometimes accidents.
“When you overheat, what you need to do is drink water. Take a sip of water at least every 15 to 20 minutes. Add fruits like watermelon and then oranges. It stops dehydration. You should also stay out of the sun when it is hot, especially from 10 am to 11 am, and from 3 pm to 4 pm, especially in the Northern part. You should also dress smartly, wearing light-coloured clothing. White is important because they absorb heat.
“Take enough baths, eat light meals. Avoid all these junks, fried foods, because heat can kill appetite. It can also reduce energy. Sometimes it’s better if you stay indoors and monitor your blood pressure. If you feel confusion, vomiting, seizure and fast breathing, you can seek medical assistance or report to a nearby hospital. The doctor will diagnose and then check out to prevent complications.”
Heat: Only Medicine Is Water – Samaila
Also speaking on the impact of the recent heat wave, Nurse Caleb Samaila, working with Family Health International (FHI) 360 in Malfa, Borno State, said, “The heat wave we are currently facing in Nigeria is affecting health. It has a significant effect on each person because it affects many organs and disrupts the body’s metabolism and internal functions. For example, inhaling dead or unwanted substances may affect the respiratory organs. Respiratory organs, such as those that cause a person to inhale hot air into the lungs, are also a problem, as is dust that may cause irritation and inflammation in a particular person’s lungs.
“Apart from respiratory diseases, it causes many common health effects, such as fatigue and weakness. You will be weak because of the sun and the heat. You won’t be able to participate in many activities, and you will experience frequent headaches and dizziness. When you walk in the sun, and it’s too much, the heat enters your body, leading to dehydration. When it leads to dehydration, it causes your body to lose a lot of electrolytes that regulate its balance, so it doesn’t function properly to keep up with your body’s activity.
“The most common diseases that are prone to happen are heat cramps. Heat cramps are the most common type, usually occurring in the abdominal region, where a person complains of pain on one side of the abdomen, such as the right or left lower abdomen. The person will have a spasm and complain of stomach aching.”
Samaila emphasised the need for people to drink water, which, in turn, will help prevent some of the diseases he discussed.
“The only way to prevent these common effects and diseases is the most common one I know of: taking water. Water is the most vital aspect of life because without it, the body cannot sustain many activities that require control. Both the metabolic part, the digestive part, and the excretory part. Everything has to go through the process of balance. So, if the body is out of balance, it will not stay in an active state. For the body to be active, you need to take a lot of water to process and get energy, and to support the body’s metabolism.
“Also, avoid working in the sun too much, and always try to eat food that does not contain a lot of fat. During this season, fats are at a very high risk, which can result in heart diseases and a lot of conditions. Eat lower-fat foods and also consume a lot of fruits, such as watermelon. Avoid consuming a lot of fatty and carbohydrate-rich foods. The majority of the food someone is supposed to eat during this season is vegetables and fruits, as they help burn fat and keep the body healthy,” he said.
