The peak summer season is here and the temperature is rising with each passing day resulting in the occurrence of heatwaves. Heat Waves occur when the temperature reaches extremely high levels for days together and can become fatal to the human body. It is a period of excessively hot weather accompanied by high humidity.
What are the causes of Heatwave?
Weather experts suggest that the high temperature across the country and the absence of periodic rainfalls can account for excessive heat waves.
Some climate change studies also suggest that anticyclones (a weather condition that causes hot and dry weather by sinking winds around high-pressure systems) over western parts of the country and weather disturbances have triggered the early and extreme heatwaves.
Heatwave in Gujarat
In Gujarat, several parts are witnessing severe heat waves this year. IMD has also issued a yellow alert. The alert comes on days when the average temperature of the state touches 43° C or more.
According to EMRI 108 Ambulance data, Ahmedabad and Gujarat at large have recorded a 10% spike in the heat-related emergencies. (Times of India #)
What are the signs and symptoms of Heat Exhaustion?
Some common symptoms of heat exhaustion are:
- Dizziness or fainting
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Extreme thirst
- Decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine
- Rapid breathing and heartbeat
- Heat Cramps accompanied by fever
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the above-mentioned signs.
How does heat waves affect our health?
Generally, the temperature of the human body is 36 – 37°C. When exposed to direct sun for a longer time, the temperature imbalance may occur leading to heat stress, heat exhaustion, dehydration, cramps, heat stroke, seizures, etc.
How to prevent the harmful health effects of heatwaves?
Stay Hydrated
- Drink sufficient water whenever possible, even when you are not thirsty.
- Carry drinking water during travel.
- Consume veggies or fruits that have high water content like Watermelon, Muskmelon, Orange, Grapes, Pineapple, Cucumber, Lettuce, etc.
- Use ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) or consume homemade drinks like lemon water, aam panna, buttermilk/lassi, and fruit juices with some added salt.
Stay Covered
- Drink sufficient water whenever possible, even when you are not thirsty.
- Carry drinking water during travel.
- Consume veggies or fruits that have high water content like Watermelon, Muskmelon, Orange, Grapes, Pineapple, Cucumber, Lettuce, etc.
- Use ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) or consume homemade drinks like lemon water, aam panna, buttermilk/lassi, and fruit juices with some added salt.
Stay Informed
- Stay updated with the latest weather forecast to avoid stepping out at that particular time.
Stay Indoors
- Try staying indoors in well-ventilated and cool places as much as possible.
- During extreme sunny days, block direct sunlight by keeping windows and curtains closed during the daytime. You can open them up at night to let cooler air in.
- If going outdoors, limit your outdoor activity during the daytime, especially hot afternoons. You can go out preferably during cooler times of the day i.e., morning and evening.
What to do if while suffering from heat exhaustion
If you or someone you know experiences heat exhaustion, follow the below steps
- Stop all activity and sit in a cooler place.
- Drink juice or beverage with electrolyte or glucose.
- Avoid returning to strenuous activity for a few hours, as further exertion may be fatal.
- Seek medical care if signs do not subside within an hour.
We at Gujarat Superspeciality Hospital are dedicated to provide our patients with the best of services and quality care. If you or someone you know is experiencing any health issues, consult with our specialists today at Gujarat Superspeciality Hospital from Monday to Sunday between 09 AM to 07 PM.
