Ajit Karn
According to the National Disaster Management Authority, a heatwaves is a period of abnormally high temperatures, exceeding the normal maximum temperature that occurs during the summer in the northwestern regions of India.
Heatwaves typically occur between March and June, but have been known to extend into July on uncommon occasions. Due to the heat wave, schools are currently closed in Maharashtra, Odisha, and West Bengal. Temperatures are increasing in the northern states, but there are periodic breaks due to western disturbances. May and June are peak months for heat surges in the northern states of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan.
Dr. Sharwari Dabhade Dua, Senior Consultant Physician & Endocrinologist at Madhukar Rainbow Children’s Hospital, told media, “A consistent increase in temperature and environmental changes have resulted in extremely hot and humid summers over the past few years. This trend will continue to worsen in the future years.”
“Our body can maintain its temperature through the dissipation of heat through perspiration. “However, extreme heat and humidity inhibit acclimatization, resulting in heat stroke,” explained Dr. Dua.
“Preexisting conditions such as hypertension, heart failure, obesity, diabetes, and renal disease can increase the risk of heat stroke. Children and the elderly are disproportionately afflicted. To reduce body temperature in such circumstances, adequate hydration with electrolytes such as sodium and appropriate air conditioning are recommended. Before minor symptoms become severe, they must be monitored. In cases of loss of consciousness, chest pain, decreased urination, and extreme fatigue, hospitalization is advised immediately,” Dr. Dua added.
In the meantime, the Director of Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan Hospital (LNJP) Hospital, Dr. Suresh Kumar, stated, “These days, the temperature is nearing 40 degrees, and when the temperature crosses or is close to 40 degrees, the risk of heat stroke increases.” The absence of water in the body is referred to as dehydration. It is crucial that we consume as much liquid as possible, such as coconut water, juice, lassi, and additional water, etc.”
“Always carry a water bottle with you when you leave the home and protect your head from the sun by wearing a hat when you’re outside. And try not to spend too much time in the sun, as it can cause dehydration. In addition, it can cause heat exhaustion and vertigo, as Dr. Kumar explained.
“Due to a lack of water in the body, sweating stops and there is a deficiency of sodium, potassium, etc. in the body, which affects our brain and heart,” the doctor added.
To mitigate the effects of the heatwave and prevent significant illness or death due to heat stroke, you can take the following precautions:
Avoid venturing outside, especially between noon and three o’clock.
Even if you’re not famished, drink sufficient water frequently.
Cotton garments that are lightweight, light-colored, loose, and permeable should be worn. When venturing out in the sun, wear protective goggles, an umbrella/hat, and shoes or chappals.
Avoid engaging in strenuous activities when the temperature is excessive outside. Avoid laboring outside between 12 noon and 3 p.m.
While traveling, you should bring water with you.
Alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated soft beverages are dehydrating and should be avoided.
Avoid consuming high-protein foods and expired food.
If you labor outside, protect your head, neck, face, and limbs with a damp cloth and a hat or umbrella.
Do not leave pets or children in unattended vehicles.
Consult a physician immediately if you feel dizzy or sick.
Rehydrate the body with ORS, homemade beverages such as lassi, torani (rice water), lemon water, and buttermilk, etc.
Provide animals with shade and ample water to consume.
Use curtains, shutters, or sunshades to keep your residence cool, and open the windows at night.
Utilize fans, damp garments, and cold baths frequently.
According to the National Disaster Management Authority, the extreme temperatures and ensuing atmospheric conditions have a negative effect on the inhabitants of these regions because they cause physiological stress, which can sometimes result in death.
Dehydration, heat cramping, heat exhaustion, and/or heat stroke are typically the health consequences of heatwaves. The following are the symptoms and signs:
Heat Cramps: Ederna (swelling) and Syncope (fainting) are typically accompanied by a temperature of less than 39 degrees Celsius.
Heat exhaustion is characterized by fatigue, lethargy, vertigo, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, and perspiration.
Also read this:UP CM Yogi Adityanath received death threat, case registered
Higher than 40 degrees Celsius body temperature, accompanied by delirium, convulsions, or coma. This condition is potentially catastrophic.
Conditions of a heat wave can cause physiological stress, which could be fatal.
