Stay Cool in Heatwaves

Orange alert is issued when there is a prolonged heat wave condition.

All the cities and areas of Gujarat state are more or less having temperature near 42 degrees Celsius.

With the temperature touching 44 degrees Celsius in Ahmedabad, the weather department has issued an ‘orange alert’ for the city.

In this situation get yourselves prepared to help ensure a safe, healthy summer, make sure you know how to prevent, recognize and treat heat-related illness.

Who is at risk for heat-related illnesses:

Infants
Babies and small children
Children and teens who engage in prolonged or intense physical activity in the sun. sports etc
Pregnant females
Older aged individual
Person suffering from any chronic or acute illness.
Common heat-related illnesses
Dehydration

Individual can become dehydrated when they lose more body fluid by sweating or urinating than they replace by drinking. Dehydration increases the risk of other heat-related illnesses because it interferes with the body’s ability to regulate temperature.

Symptoms of dehydration include:

Dry or sticky mouth and lips
Vertigo
Low or no urine output; concentrated urine appears dark yellow
Being irritable or cranky
Seeming bored or uninterested
Headache
Dizziness
Muscle cramps
Chills
Fatigue

In severe cases, dehydration can cause:

Sunken eyes
Nausea or vomiting
Lethargy or coma
Heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke – a medical emergency are more common risks for children and teens who engage in prolonged or intense physical activity in the sun, for example during sports practice

Prevention points:

Stay cool in high temperatures:

Limit outdoor activities during peak sun hours (10am to 4pm)
Stay out of direct sunlight and crowded areas
Rest often in shady areas or go to an air-conditioned space
Wear wide-brimmed hats and lightweight, light-colored, loose cotton clothing
Cover your body if you are sneaking out in the sun. Use an umbrella, face and body coat
Protect your eyes by wearing goggles
Stay hydrated by plenty of fluids. Water is a good option, also use fresh fruits, fruit juice, glucose water, lime water, coconut water etc
Avoid taking very chilled drinks soon after exposure to sun
Cool the body with water
Maintain hygiene to avoid skin complaints and urinary tract infection.

If still sign and symptoms persist or get worsen immediately contact your physician or ask for the help from the nearest hospital.

In homoeopathy also, there are many medicines available for the treatment of bad effects of heat stroke, heat cramps and skin issues due to exposure to sun- sunburns etc.