For the third consecutive day, the maximum temperature remained above 40 degree Celsius.
Speaking to IANS, Dr Anoop Latene, Consultant Internal Medicine, Surya Mother and Child Super Specialty Hospital Pune said, “Extreme heat can be fatal, especially in India, where many people do not have enough cooling.”
India’s urgent need to address the growing threat
While the effect of a heatwave on the human body may vary from person to person, “children, pregnant women and senior citizens should take extra precautions to reduce the effects of extreme heat and avoid going out during the day”. .
“These groups are more likely to experience dehydration when exposed to extreme environmental temperatures,” said Dr Rajeev Gupta, senior consultant, internal medicine at CK Birla Hospital in Gurugram.
In children, a heatwave can cause “dizziness, excessive sweating, nausea/vomiting and muscle cramps. In severe cases, individuals may also suffer heat stroke, which can result in loss of consciousness and seizures”. , Doctor. Latne said.
Other adverse effects of heat include lethargy, body aches, weakness, and, in severe cases, disturbances in kidney function, a drop in blood pressure, and a deepening of co-morbidities for those who suffer from it.
understanding their impact on health and well-being
In response to heatwave forecasts, several state governments have issued guidelines for schools, including: Closure, no meeting at noon, water break, etc.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has advised the public to “take precautions and stay hydrated during hot weather”.
“It is necessary to consume at least 2-2.5 liters of water daily. In case of any symptoms, water with salt, coconut water with salt and lemon water with salt can be consumed. To escape from, one must avoid.” Avoid prolonged exposure to hot environments, exercise in the heat and always seek shade,” said Gupta.
Dr. Ajay Agarwal, Director and Head of Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital Noida, said, “Heatstroke is a serious medical condition, which can be fatal if not treated promptly with rapid cooling.”
He advised people to stay hydrated and take frequent breaks for hydration and cooling while exercising. “Limit physical activities that can raise your body temperature, especially during the hottest parts of the day,” Agarwal said.
Latne recommends to expectant mothers Avoid caffeine because it can make them lose more fluids and worsen the symptoms of heat exhaustion. Instead, consuming beverages like fresh fruit juice and buttermilk can help.
The doctor said that reducing protein intake, increasing intake of fruits and vegetables with high water content and wearing loose-fitting clothes are other ways in which we can reduce the effect of heat on our body.
Source: IANS
