North India is currently facing intense heatwave conditions and health experts have advised people to take a little extra care as temperatures continue to rise. Speaking exclusively to True Scoop, Dr. Naresh Bathla Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Chest at PIMS explained that hydration is one of the most important steps to prevent heat related illness during such harsh weather.
He said people should drink more water than usual and avoid waiting until they feel thirsty and also advised carrying a water bottle at all times and sipping water regularly throughout the day instead of drinking a large quantity at once as according to him steady hydration helps the body manage heat stress better.
Dr. Bathla said ORS is helpful in preventing dehydration especially in extreme heat conditions and he also mentioned that simple homemade drinks like lemon water with a small amount of sugar and salt can be effective however sugary soft drinks and artificially sweetened beverages can have the opposite effect and may not help in proper hydration.
Explaining further about heat related illnesses Dr. Bathla said heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two different conditions and heat exhaustion is an early stage where symptoms like excessive sweating, weakness, dizziness, headache and dry tongue can appear while in a heat stroke which is much more serious can become life-threatening.
He warned that in heat stroke cases the body temperature can rise up to 104°F or more and it can affect the brain, kidneys and other vital organs sometimes leading to organ failure if not treated in time.
In case of a heat stroke emergency Dr. Bathla advised shifting the person to a cool place and also recommended using cold wet cloths on the head, neck and groin area to bring down the body temperature explaining that quick medical attention is very important in such situations.
The doctor further suggested simple preventive steps for the public including staying well hydrated, covering the head while going outside and avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours between 10 am and 4 pm and also recommended carrying an umbrella or using a cap when stepping out. For fitness lovers he advised doing workouts early in the morning or in the evening instead of during peak afternoon heat.
Meanwhile weather conditions remain severe across large parts of northwest India and according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) heatwave conditions are expected to continue for the next four to five days and a red alert has been issued for Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh while a yellow alert remains in place for Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan.