Heatwave in Delhi: Do’s and Don’ts to avoid health problems in rising temperature

Heatwave in Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said some parts of Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of over 45 degrees Celsius, with Najafgarh recording the highest of 46.3 degrees Celsius.

Heatwave conditions prevailed in the national capital on Monday with the maximum temperature settling around 43 degrees Celsius, according to the Meteorological Department, which also issued a yellow alert for Delhi.

Heatwaves pose a significant threat to human health, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children and people with pre-existing medical conditions.

“Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. In addition, heatwaves can worsen respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, and even increase mortality.” Can,” Dr Rakesh Gupta, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals New Delhi told IANS.

Dr. Pradeep Kawatra, Consultant – Internal Medicine, said, “Exposure to heat waves can be very harmful for older people and people with chronic diseases. Prolonged direct exposure can lead to dehydration and hyperthermia (abnormal body temperature). higher temperatures than) can occur.” Fortis Escorts – Okhla.

Around the world, climate change has made heat waves more common, longer and hotter. A recent Cambridge University study showed that nearly 90 percent of India is in the “high risk” or “danger” zone from heatwave impacts, and almost all of Delhi is particularly vulnerable to severe heatwave impacts.

“Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of heatwaves around the world. Rising global temperatures are resulting in more extreme heat events, increasing the risk to human health and well-being. Increased greenhouse gas emissions contribute to the greenhouse effect thereby trapping heat in the atmosphere and leading to a rise in average temperature,” said Dr Rakesh.

The study showed that heatwaves are becoming more frequent and longer lasting in India and the Indian subcontinent, emphasizing the urgent need for mitigation and adaptation strategies to address climate change and its impact on heatwaves Is.

According to Dr Ajay Kumar Gupta, Associate Director – Internal Medicine, Max Hospital, Vaishali: “Heatwaves are characterized by headache, dizziness, red spots on the skin, dark or decreased urine, muscle cramps, rapid breathing and sometimes May increase headache. Fainting (fainting episode).

“In severe cases, it will lead to coma with electrolyte imbalance and chest discomfort. In more severe cases, it can cause permanent brain damage or death,” he told IANS.

Health experts suggested avoiding direct contact during high temperature times like 12 noon to 4:30 pm, using an umbrella or any cover and always staying fully hydrated.

“Drink plenty of plain water or home-made shikanji (a mixture of lemon sugar and salt). Avoid physical exertion and sports during peak hours. If you are working out, check your urine output. Heat Waves They can also harm your skin. So wear loose cotton clothes and avoid tight synthetic clothes.” Dr. Pradeep told IANS.

Meanwhile, the weather office has announced that heatwave conditions are likely to subside from May 24 over most parts of India including Delhi. Officials said a fresh western disturbance could bring respite from the warm weather conditions with light rain and cloudy sky for three to four days.