Heatstroke Alerts and Prevention: Surviving Summer Heat in Japan
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Being exposed to the intense heat of summer days in Japan can lead to heatstroke, a medical condition that can be fatal. in this article, we explain what heatstroke is and how to prevent it.
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Tokyo, Japan
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Heatstroke Prevention: A Basic Guide
Japanese summers last from roughly the end of May to about the end of September. While May tends to be pleasantly sunny and warm, the rest of the summer is different.
As most of Japan lies in the tropical to northern temperate climate zone, the weather is much hotter and more humid than most visitors to the area would expect.
Before making the journey to Japan, especially in the summer, it is vital that you prepare for weather that you might not have encountered before. Serious medical conditions may arise if you are ill-prepared, and no one wants to visit the hospital on vacation.
In this article, we explain what heatstroke is and how to prevent this condition.
Heatstroke: Definition and Prevention Tips
The Features of Summer in Japan
Summer Temperatures in Japan
What Is Heatstroke/Sunstroke?
What to Watch Out for
Heatstroke Prevention Tips
1. Avoid Spending Time Outside in the Heat
2. Keep Hydrated
3. Use a Parasol
4. Use a Portable Fan
5. Use Cooling Sprays and Sheets
6. Salt Candy to Prevent Dehydration
Hospitals to Visit in an Emergency
1. The Features of Summer in Japan
Photo by Pixta
When summer officially begins at the start of June, the rainy season begins and lasts for roughly a month in the central regions of Japan (excluding Hokkaido). Following this month of damp to humid rainy weather, Japan enters its hottest and most humid season, with daily temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77-95°F) or more, and with humidity reaching around 80% or sometimes even higher. In weather like this anyone can start to feel ill if they stay outside for too long.
The rainy season is very important for farmers, and helps rice crops to prosper. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that it's a supporting factor in Japan's culinary culture. The intensity of the rainy season varies year to year; some years you may barely see the sun in June while in others there may be small cloudbursts daily but overall sunny weather.
Photo by Pixta
Temperatures can suddenly drop due to the heavy rainfall during this period, so it is a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater with you when you are going to be out all day.
To sum up, it can be said that summer in Japan starts with the rainy season.
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2. Summer Temperature in Japan
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When the rainy season ends, July begins with a sudden sharp rise in both heat and humidity. This is the perfect time to head to the beach, pool or water park, or leave the city for the cooler mountain areas.
If you stay in the city, you will notice a distinct change in business attire; known as "Cool Biz", the majority of companies allow their employees to switch out suits for short sleeve shirts or summer dresses.
The most important thing to watch out for during the summer is heatstroke or sunstroke.
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3. What is Heatstroke/Sunstroke?
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Heatstroke is a relatively common condition in Japan, many visitors to this area, especially those from more northern regions may not have heard of this serious and potentially fatal medical issue before.
Heatstroke or sunstroke, is a direct result of prolonged exposure to intense heat or overexertion in hot/humid temperatures. Essentially, this exposure causes the temperature-regulating mechanisms in your body to malfunction, which then causes your body to lose the ability to manage its other systems, leading to permanent muscle or organ damage, brain damage or even death if not treated quickly.
The symptoms of heatstroke include: high fever, an altered mental state (such as slurring, agitation, confusion), dizziness that gets worse over time, nausea/vomiting, feeling faint or lightheaded, throbbing headaches, and/or rapid, shallow breathing.
Heatstroke does not hit all at once, but rather comes on slowly, but the faster that it is treated, the better. Annually in Japan, more than one thousand people (mainly the elderly) die from heatstroke each year.
In Japanese, heatstroke is called necchūshō (熱中症), pronounced phonetically in English as: "neh-chew-show".
On summer days when temperatures exceed 35 degrees Celsius, local authorities usually issue a heatstroke alert, advising the citizens to avoid spending a long time outside in the heat.
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4. What to Watch Out for on Hot Summer Days
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Whenever doing heavy work or physical activities under strong/direct sunlight is the time when you should be most aware of heatstroke, though there are also cases where poorly air-conditioned or ventilated indoor facilities can cause heatstroke as well.
As a result, both crowded indoor and outdoor tourist attractions can be dangerous on the hottest days of the summer. For those who are not used to weather such as this, your own body may not be adequately prepared to adjust to these temperatures as quickly as needed, creating a higher risk of heatstroke for travelers from more moderate climates.
For travelers who aren't used to Japan's summers, heatstroke is something that must be watched out for and ideally, prevented.
Heatstroke Prevention Tips
1. Get Out of the Heat
Photo by Pixta
If you start finding yourself thinking "It's so hot, I'm starting to feel tired/ill..." then it's important to quickly find a place with plenty of shade where you can sit and cool down.
If you're inside your hotel or hostel room, adjust the temperature with a fan or air-conditioning, take off any excessive layers of clothing and try placing a cool wet towel or wrapped ice pack on your head.
Before you go out for the day, make sure you have a cap or sunhat to protect from the sun, and if you can, try to stay out of the direct sunlight (especially during the hottest part of the day). Make sure to wear loose clothes that breathe, in light colors.
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2. Keep Hydrated
Photo by Pixta
When you lose water to perspiration, it's easy to become dehydrated; the symptoms of mild to moderate dehydration are similar to those of heatstroke, and also include dry mouth, thirst despite drinking and tiredness (especially in children). Severe dehydration is a medical emergency just like heatstroke, so please be aware of you and your travel companions' fluid intake.
Aquarius and Pocari Sweat are popular sports drinks
That being said, if you drink too much at once, you could further imbalance your body's electrolyte levels and potentially make yourself feel worse. The best idea is to have water or a sports drink (a soft drink with high salt content) on you at all times and to drink whenever you feel the slightest bit thirsty.
It is hard to judge just how much fluid you should take in, but if you find that you are sweating a lot more than you would back home, you should be drinking more than you would normally.
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3. Use a Parasol
Parasols, traditionally associated with women, have become a practical summer accessory for men as well. Rebranded as "higasa" in Japanese, these sun shields are affordable, with prices starting at roughly 300 yen and are readily available in most stores.
Beyond mere sunburn prevention, parasols offer crucial cooling benefits, shielding users from heat fatigue and headaches caused by direct sunlight exposure.
The once-scoffed-at items are gaining recognition for their practicality and effectiveness, attracting individuals of all genders seeking relief from the scorching sun.
This evolution highlights the shift from viewing parasols as fashion statements to recognizing them as essential tools for staying cool and protected during the summer months, making them a must-have item for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors without succumbing to the harsh effects of the sun's rays.
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4. Use a Portable Fan
When the heat of summer becomes relentless, turn to the ingenious solutions offered by Japanese portable fans. These compact gadgets are a convenient alternative to traditional fans, requiring no manual labor and easily fitting into your bag for on-the-go cooling.
For a more refreshing experience, consider Daiso's portable fan with a built-in water container that transforms into a fine mist sprayer when a few ice cubes are added.
This innovative feature provides a fully automated cooling spray, perfect for hot days under the sun. Available at affordable prices starting from 100 yen and commonly stocked in stores, these portable fans promise to be your go-to companion for staying cool and comfortable throughout the summer months.
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5. Use Cooling Sprays and Sheets
Japanese cooling sprays and lotions offer instant relief from the summer heat, acting as portable bursts of refreshment. The sprays, akin to icy magic in a can, provide quick cooling when exploring sunny cities, fitting perfectly in your bag for on-the-go use.
Similarly, the cooling lotions, recommended for pre-sun exposure application, soothe and rejuvenate tired skin after a day of intense sun exposure or to alleviate sunburn discomfort.
Priced starting at approximately 100 yen and available in most stores, these innovative products are must-haves for staying cool in hot weather. Remember to avoid contact with eyes and ingestion. Embrace these Japanese inventions to combat the heat, ensuring you remain cool, comfortable, and revitalized throughout the summer season.
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6. Salt Candy to Prevent Dehydration
In Japan, Ume Shio Ame (Plum Salt Candy) embodies a traditional remedy for replenishing lost salt vital in the summer.
Rooted in the belief that salty treats like umeboshi combat summer ailments, this sweet-salty delight serves as a cultural practice to maintain mineral balance during hot days. By enjoying salt candy, you not only savor a unique flavor but also fortify your body against potential health issues while traveling.
This custom reflects Japan's holistic approach to well-being, emphasizing the importance of salty foods in preserving health during intense heat. Incorporating Ume Shio Ame into your routine ensures you experience a taste of local wisdom while staying resilient in the face of summer challenges, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the seasonal delights Japan has to offer without the hindrance of illness.
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Hospitals to Visit in an Emergency
Photo by Pixta
Knowing the nearest hospitals is crucial for prompt emergency response, especially during periods of elevated heatstroke risk. Here is a curated list of hospitals with English support that facilitate effective communication and rapid access to medical care in urgent situations.
Center Hospital of the National Center for Global Health and Medicine (Shinjuku)
Address: 1 Chome-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku City, Tokyo
Website: https://www.ncgm.go.jp/
JCHO Tokyo Takanawa Hospital (Takanawa)
Address: 3 Chome-10-11 Takanawa, Minato City, Tokyo
Website:https://takanawa.jcho.go.jp/
NTT Medical Center Tokyo (Shinagawa)
Address: 5 Chome-9-22 Higashigotanda, Shinagawa City, Tokyo Map
Website: https://www.nmct.ntt-east.co.jp/en/
IUHW Mita Hospital (near Tokyo Tower)
Address:Address: 1 Chome-4-3 Mita, Minato City, Tokyo
Website:https://mita.iuhw.ac.jp/
Tokyo Metropolitan Hiroo Hospital (Roppongi area)
Address: 2 Chome-34-10 Ebisu, Shibuya City, Tokyo
Website:https://www.tmhp.jp/hiroo/
Please refer to the following article for details on each of the facilities listed above and other hospitals with English-speaking medical staff.
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Surviving Summer in Japan
Though we discussed some pretty serious issues in this article, with a proper understanding of the weather in Japan and careful self-management, heatstroke and dehydration can be entirely avoided.
We know it is easy to forget to drink and things like that when you are having a great time, but wouldn't you rather look back on your trip with fond memories of the sights and not of hospitals?
Remember, if you or your travel companion(s) start to feel ill, prioritize your well-being and get help right away. Have a good, safe trip!
MATCHA's promotional account for corporate and local government advertising. We aim to provide useful information to our readers in an enjoyable manner.
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