By Mark DaCosta- Guyanese are aware that this country, and others, are experiencing unusually hot weather due to the El Nino effect and climate change. On November 8, the World Meteorological Organization released a statement that asserted the following:
“El Niño is expected to last until at least April 2024. Since the effects of an El Niño typically play out the year after it forms, experts say it is likely that 2024 will be even hotter. The average global mean temperature between January and October 2023 was the highest on record. It beat the 10-month average for 2016 – the current record holder for the hottest year – by 0.1C.”
Given the existing reality, medical experts have published countless articles warning that heat-related illnesses and deaths will increase. One serious, potentially fatal condition is rhabdomyolysis.
Rhabdomyolysis is a very serious medical situation caused or exacerbated by high body temperature. It is characterised by the rapid breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue. Those are the ordinary muscles that we voluntarily use to move our limbs, head and so on. Also, the chest muscles that allow us to breathe. Such muscles are composed of fibres that slide against each other to contract or relax the muscle.
When muscle fibers break down, they release myoglobin, a protein, into the bloodstream. Myoglobin does not normally belong in the blood, so it can cause damage to the kidneys, leading to kidney failure if the condition is not promptly treated. Rhabdomyolysis – also called rhabdo – can occur due to various factors, including extreme physical exertion, excessive exercise, trauma or injury, muscle compression as may be caused by a bandage that is too tight, drug reactions, and, of course, as relevant to this article, heat-related illnesses such as sunstroke due to hot weather.
During hot weather such as Guyana is currently enduring, people are at an increased risk of rhabdomyolysis due to several factors. Prolonged exposure to high heat can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Electrolytes are substances such as potassium and calcium that are necessary for life. Those issues can contribute to muscle breakdown.
Additionally, doing strenuous physical activity in extreme heat without adequate hydration can also lead to rhabdomyolysis. The combination of heat stress, dehydration, and physical exertion can create a perfect storm for the onset of this serious medical emergency.
The symptoms of rhabdomyolysis can vary but usually include muscle pain, weakness, and swelling. Dark, tea-colored urine is a classic indicator of myoglobin release and kidney involvement. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, mental confusion, and in severe cases, decreased urine output. In the context of Guyana’s heat issue, these symptoms should not ever be ignored, as they could indicate a potentially life-threatening situation.
Preventing rhabdomyolysis during hot weather involves taking measures to stay cool and hydrated. It is crucial for everyone to avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially during peak hours of the day. In Guyana, those hours may be between 9 am and 2 pm. Also, strenuous physical activity should be limited during extreme heat, and Guyanese should prioritise staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water and electrolyte-rich fluids. As fruit juices and sports drinks. But not energy drinks that may contain substances that could make dehydration worse.
Wearing lightweight, breathable clothing made of natural fibres like cotton, and seeking shade or air-conditioned environments can also help prevent heat-related muscle breakdown.
If rhabdomyolysis is suspected, immediate medical attention is essential. Guyanese should note that this is a medical emergency.
Treatment of the condition often involves intravenous fluids administered by medical professionals to maintain kidney function and flush out myoglobin from the bloodstream. In severe cases, patients may require dialysis to support kidney function.
Experts say that Identifying and addressing the underlying cause, such as dehydration or heat exposure, is crucial in the treatment process. Timely intervention can prevent further complications and improve the prognosis for people affected by rhabdomyolysis.
The prognosis or outlook for rhabdomyolysis largely depends on the promptness of treatment and the severity of the condition. In cases where the underlying cause is identified and addressed early, the prognosis is generally favorable. However, if left untreated, rhabdomyolysis can lead to serious complications, including kidney failure and even death. Therefore, it is important for Guyanese to recognise the symptoms and seek medical attention quickly.
As the wellbeing of Guyanese continues to be increasingly threatened by extremely hot weather – and other issues – Village Voice News endeavors to publish articles such as this one. Such articles are intended to educate Guyanese about threats to health and wellbeing, and help citizens stay safe during these challenging times.
