Sunburn, heatstroke, and heat exhaustion: Do not underestimate the heat

A long stay in the sun or in hot environments can lead to overheating of the body.

• Heat exhaustion (heatstroke) occurs when the body is exposed to high temperatures for a long time and is unable to properly regulate heat. It can develop not only during tropical holidays in direct sunlight, but also in hot and poorly ventilated indoor spaces. The normal human body temperature is 36.0–36.9 °C, but in heat exhaustion it can rise up to 40 °C. The body then struggles to release excess heat, which leads to symptoms such as elevated temperature, nausea, dry and flushed skin, rapid pulse, or rapid breathing. In more severe cases, loss of consciousness may occur.
• Heatstroke (sun-related overheating of the brain) is always caused by direct sun exposure. Symptoms include general weakness, exhaustion, vomiting, and sometimes warm or even sunburned skin. Fever may also be present.

Prevention is key: adequate hydration is essential, as is avoiding direct sunlight, seeking shade, and wearing a hat.

First aid for heat-related conditions

If someone is affected, they should be moved immediately to a cool, shaded place. Clothing around the neck and chest should be loosened. The body should be cooled using compresses, especially on the head, neck, and chest. Lightly spraying the body with cool water can help. Rehydration is also essential—water, mineral water, or slightly sweetened cool tea is recommended. Liquids should not be ice-cold and should be given in small sips. If the person loses consciousness, recovery position should be used and emergency services must be called.

Dangerous surprises in nature: snakes and toxic plants

In the Czech Republic, the only naturally occurring venomous snake is the common adder (Vipera berus). Protection includes wearing long trousers and sturdy shoes when walking in nature. If you encounter a snake, keep a safe distance. Snakes are shy and usually attack only when threatened. They sense vibrations, so stomping can help warn them away.

If a snakebite occurs, do not try to suck out the venom, cut the wound, or use a tourniquet—these are myths that can worsen the situation. Symptoms may include swelling at the bite site, nausea, vomiting, sweating, thirst, abdominal pain, diarrhea, collapse, panic, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness. First aid includes calming the person and, if possible, cooling the affected area. If the condition worsens, call emergency services (155 in the Czech Republic) or seek medical help immediately.

Beware of toxic berries

During walks, people may be tempted to eat wild berries. However, it is important to distinguish edible berries such as blueberries from dangerous plants like deadly nightshade or herb paris.

Poisoning typically begins with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or headache. In the case of deadly nightshade, symptoms may also include dilated pupils, dry mouth, confusion, and in severe cases even seizures. Emergency medical services should always be called in case of suspected poisoning.

If necessary, the Czech Toxicological Information Centre can also be contacted for advice. In unclear cases, it is important to provide detailed information about the incident and, if possible, a sample of the ingested substance, as symptoms of poisoning may appear with delay, especially in children.

For uncertainty in minor health issues, clients can also contact a physician via the online consultation service “Doctor Online 24/7,” available through the myCANADIAN app. Through chat or video call, a specialist can help with diagnosis, prescribe an ePrescription if needed, or recommend further examination.