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With a heat wave sweeping the country, it is important to take the necessary precautions to stay safe. Read on to know what our neurologist says.
Temperatures across North India are increasing, and New Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 47.4 degrees Celsius on Monday. Severe heatwave red alert has been issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi for the next five days. In such a scenario, heat stroke or sunstroke is a very real possibility. This is a serious condition characterized by a body temperature exceeding 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius). It typically arises from prolonged exposure to high temperatures and excessive physical exertion, especially in hot weather. Vulnerable populations, such as newborns and the elderly, are particularly susceptible. As the summer sun reaches its peak, the risk of heat stroke escalates, posing severe threats like brain damage, organ failure, and mortality.
Here, let us see how you can save yourself from this threat. But first, you need to know about this condition.
Risk Factors Of Heat Strike
Several factors can precipitate heat stroke, including –
- Excessive alcohol intake
- Dehydration
- Certain medications that elevate body heat
- Underlying chronic conditions affecting kidney, heart, or liver function.
- Obesity, previous heat stroke incidents, and poor physical health can also heighten susceptibility.
Types Of Heat Strokes
Heat stroke manifests in two forms exertional and non-exertional. Exertional heatstroke typically occurs when individuals overexert themselves in hot conditions and can develop rapidly, within hours. Non-exertional heatstroke, on the other hand, is more common, often emerging gradually due to age or underlying health issues, sometimes taking several days to manifest fully.
Signs and symptoms of heat stroke
Recognizing the signs of heat stroke is crucial. These include
Excessive sweating may also precede a heat stroke episode.
Heat Stroke Complications
Untreated, heat stroke can lead to complications such as
- Reduced blood flow to the heart
- Circulatory issues
- Brain swelling
- Nerve damage.
- Heat waves can also exacerbate migraines, with studies suggesting a strong correlation between temperature spikes and migraine onset.
- Environmental factors, including serotonin level fluctuations induced by weather changes, contribute to this phenomenon. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures increases the risk of heat exhaustion, a precursor to heat stroke.
Risk For Alzheimer’s Patients
Moreover, heat waves pose particular risks to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.
- Hospitalization rates and post-discharge mortality among Alzheimer’s patients surge during heatwaves.
- Impaired judgment and decision-making abilities in Alzheimer’s patients exacerbate vulnerability to heat-related illnesses.
- Coexisting conditions like diabetes and heart disease further compound these risks.
As global temperatures rise, it becomes imperative to take proactive measures to safeguard vulnerable populations.
Keep Yourself Safe: Try These Home Remedies
Home remedies and safety precautions can mitigate the impact of heat waves.
- Essential oils like lavender or peppermint, cold compresses will offer relief
- Keep yourself hydrated with beverages like herbal tea, lemon water, coconut water, and buttermilk.
- Keep your environment cool
- Consume electrolyte-rich fluids
- Wear light, loose clothing
- Cold water baths can aid in reducing body temperature
- Avoid strenuous physical activity during peak heat hours minimizes heat stroke risk.
Be Aware Of, Be Vigilant Against Heat Stroke
Understanding the ramifications of heat waves on the brain and overall health is paramount. By implementing preventive measures, staying vigilant for warning signs, and prioritizing hydration and cooling strategies, individuals can mitigate the adverse effects of heat stroke and safeguard their well-being during sweltering weather conditions.
(This article is authored by Dr Praveen Gupta, Principal Director & Chief of Neurology, Fortis Hospital, Gurugram)
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