Prof. Dr. Orhan Şen: Extreme heat can lead to brain hemorrhages.

18.07.2025 12:33

Professor Dr. Orhan Şen, a specialist in Brain, Nerve, and Spinal Surgery, emphasized that extreme heat increases the risk of brain hemorrhage. He stated, "When you are exposed to extreme heat, the brain immediately reacts by trying to balance it. The heart rate increases, and if you are elderly, have weak blood vessel walls, are using diuretics, or have hypertension, these conditions can lead to bleeding in the brain."

The temperatures in Adana are above seasonal norms. Due to the air temperature exceeding 40 degrees in recent days, citizens are seeking shade and closed areas to cool off. Experts warn that especially prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to serious health problems. Walking or working without a hat in hot weather can cause a brain hemorrhage.

"EXTREME HEAT CAN LEAD TO BRAIN HEMORRHAGE"

In a statement regarding the issue, Brain, Nerve, and Spinal Surgery Specialist Prof. Dr. Orhan Şen emphasized that extreme heat can have serious effects on human health, stating, "Extreme heat can lead to brain hemorrhage. However, this heat does not cause brain hemorrhage in everyone."

"THE BRAIN TRIES TO COMPENSATE AS A RESPONSE"

Continuing his remarks, Orhan Şen said, "In extreme heat, the brain has an auto-regulation system that protects itself against fluctuations in blood pressure. In hot weather, there is excessive dilation of blood vessels, resulting in a drop in blood pressure. A drop in blood pressure leads to a decrease in the amount of blood reaching the brain or other organs. The brain immediately reacts to this by trying to balance it. The heart rate increases, and if you are elderly, have weak blood vessel walls, are using diuretics, or have hypertension, these conditions can lead to bleeding in the brain," he stated.

"WHEN NOT ENOUGH FLUID IS CONSUMED, BLOOD THICKENS"

Prof. Dr. Şen emphasized that patients with hypertension and those using diuretics need to be more careful, stating, "In extreme heat, the body loses fluids due to excessive sweating. When you do not take in enough fluids, the blood thickens and becomes concentrated. This concentration can lead to blockages in the brain and heart vessels, causing paralysis or the heart may show itself as hypertension due to excessive effort. If you have hypertension or are taking diuretics, you must be very careful," he said.

"DO NOT GO OUT DURING HOT HOURS, PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE SUN"

Prof. Dr. Orhan Şen recommended that especially the elderly, patients with hypertension, and those working in heavy jobs should not go out during hot hours, should consume plenty of fluids, and protect themselves from the sun.