Experts say current heatwave in India is fatal for kids, pregnant women, elderly

India s currently experiencing a severe heat wave which can be deadly especially for children pregnant women and the elderly doctors said here on TuesdayOn Monday about 36 weather stations across the country particularly in central and north India recorded temperatures above 42 degrees CelsiusDelhi registered a maximum temperature of 406 degrees Celsius four notches higher than normal the third consecutive day that the maximum temperature settled above 40 degrees CelsiusTalking to IANS Dr Anup Latne Consultant Internal Medicine Surya Mother and Child Super Speciality Hospital Pune said Extreme heat can be deadly especially in India where many lack access to adequate coolingWhile the effect of heatwaves on a human body can differ person to person children pregnant women and senior citizens should take additional precaution to mitigate the effect of severe heat and avoid going outdoors during the dayThese groups are more likely to experience dehydration when exposed to extreme environmental temperatures said Dr Rajiva Gupta Senior Consultant Internal medicine at the CK Birla Hospital GurugramIn children heatwave can lead todizziness sweating profusely nauseavomiting and muscular cramps In severe cases individuals may also face heat strokes resulting in loss of consciousness and seizures Dr Latne saidOther adverse effects of heat include lethargy body aches weakness and in severe cases kidney function disturbance fall in blood pressure and exacerbation of comorbidities for those who suffer from themIn response to heatwave forecasts several state governments have released guidelines for schools including closure no assembly during the afternoon water breaks etcMeanwhile the India Meteorological Department IMD has advised the public to take precautions and stay hydrated during the hot weatherIt is necessary to consume at least 225 litres of water daily In case of any symptoms water with salt coconut water with salt and lemon water with salt can be consumed To prevent heatrelated illnesses one should avoid prolonged exposure to heated environments avoid exercising in heat and always seek shade Gupta notedHeatstroke is a serious medical condition that can be fatal if not treated promptly with rapid cooling said Dr Ajay Aggarwal Director and Head Internal Medicine Fortis Hospital NoidaHe advised people to stay hydrated take frequent breaks for hydration and cooling while exercising Limit physical activities that can increase your body temperature especially during the hottest parts of the day Aggarwal saidLatne recommended expecting mothers to avoid caffeine as it can make them lose more fluids and worsen the symptoms of heat exhaustion Instead consuming beverages such as fresh fruit juice and buttermilk can helpReducing protein intake increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables with high water content and wearing loose fitting clothes are other ways we can lower the effect of heat on our body the doctor saidAlso Read Skincare during a heatwave How does sunscreen protect your skinThis story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed agencies Midday accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability trustworthiness reliability and data of the text Midday managementmiddaycom reserves the sole right to alter delete or remove without notice the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever