India’s summer months are associated with sweltering heat
and high humidity. With every year seeing a rise in temperature and breaking
previous records of high temperature, heat stroke is rising. Global warming to
be blamed for more severe summers where temperature hovers more than 40 degrees
Celsius takes its toll on the health of those who do day-to-day activities
under severe heatwave conditions. The rising temperature with high humidity
levels can be catastrophic, and many succumb due to excessive heat.
Above all, school vacations and wedding season keep people
moving from one place to another in hordes, and the excessive heat can bring
healthcare challenges for many.
Heat stroke is a common occurrence during the summer, and
severe complications may lead to death. Relentless heat for days affects
day-to-day activities, and it is a challenge for those with no option but to
work outside.
Symptoms
A person suffering from heat stroke may show the following
symptoms: high body temperature, headache, dizziness, nausea, and ultimately
passing out. Heavy sweating, palpitation, blisters, etc., can be the other
associated symptoms. Stomach issues related to diarrhea and dysentery are
commonly associated with heat stroke. Untreated heatstroke is likely to damage
the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles.
Precautions
The medical fraternity advises various precautionary
measures during the unabated heat wave during the summer months. While
venturing out, one must remember the following things: wearing loose cotton
clothes and using an umbrella. Staying dehydrated and carrying safe drinking
water is strongly recommended. It is recommended that children and older people
do not venture out when the heat levels are at their peak.
Resting intermittently and not working hard during the heat
wave will help somewhat alleviate the crisis.
Having said so, it is not recommended that cut fruits and
juices be sold openly on the streets as this may lead to diarrhea and
dysentery, adding to the heat woes.
Keeping a tab
Taking proper precautions before venturing will help
prevent heat stroke. Keeping an update on the weather forecast will also help
many avoid venturing during the heat, especially in the afternoon. In case of
urgency, a person suffering from a heat stroke should be taken to a nearby
hospital/clinic for medical intervention.
Avoiding street food, drinking clean water, and wearing
comfortable clothes will prevent specific health issues associated with hot
weather. Having oral rehydration solution at regular intervals will bring
much-needed relief.
Passersby need to be careful if someone passes out while
walking on the road. Quick medical intervention and hospitalization can help in
the scenario, and lives can be saved.
