Heat wave prompts health warnings for pregnant women and athletes in Romania

Extreme temperatures are raising health concerns in Romania. Medical experts say pregnant women face higher risks of dehydration, heat exhaustion and complications such as pre‑term birth. Warning signs include faintness, excessive fatigue, headaches, nausea, heavy sweating, rapid heartbeat, muscle cramps, intense thirst and confusion. Women are advised to hydrate regularly, avoid the hottest parts of the day, keep cool with air‑conditioning or fans, take frequent rests and seek medical help if severe symptoms appear.

For people exercising outdoors, high heat reduces blood flow to muscles and increases fatigue. Specialists recommend training early in the morning or late in the evening, staying in the shade, paying attention to humidity and wind, shortening or lowering the intensity of workouts, and using effective cooling methods such as cold water sprays, wet towels or pre‑cooling body parts. Indoor training in poorly ventilated spaces should be avoided.

Both sets of advice aim to prevent heat‑related illness and protect vulnerable groups during ongoing heat waves.