Renowned pulmonologist Randeep Guleria has cautioned people against the risks of heat-related illnesses as several parts of India, particularly northern states, continue to experience intense heatwave conditions. He said elderly people and children are vulnerable to such risks, emphasizing that they should take special care under present weather conditions.
Speaking to a news agency, Dr Guleria said there has been a sharp rise in temperatures and heatwave-related symptoms across the country. “If we talk about the heat wave, it’s evident that there is a severe increase in temperature and heat wave symptoms across India, especially in North India,” he said.
Dr Guleria, Chairman of the Institute of Internal Medicine, Respiratory & Sleep Medicine at Medanta in Gurugram, said one of the most common effects of extreme heat is prickly heat or skin rashes caused by excessive sweating.
“Heat can cause several symptoms. The most common one is prickly heat or heat rash on the skin. While mild, it can be treated with powder and by taking precautions against excessive sweating,” he said.He warned that prolonged exposure to extreme heat could also lead to heat stroke, a serious condition in which the body loses its ability to regulate temperature.
“Heat stroke can also occur, where the body’s temperature control fails, leading to very high temperatures, unconsciousness, seizures, and other serious symptoms,” he said.According to Dr Guleria, elderly individuals, children and people with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart and lung diseases are particularly vulnerable during heatwaves.
“Elderly individuals and children should take special care. Those with underlying conditions like heart or lung issues need to be particularly careful,” he added.He advised people to avoid venturing outdoors during peak heat hours, especially for strenuous physical activity or outdoor work.
“They should avoid going out in extreme heat, particularly for outdoor work,” he said.The pulmonologist also stressed the importance of staying hydrated and maintaining electrolyte balance during extreme summer conditions.“If you must go out, stay well-hydrated with both fluids and electrolytes, such as Electral, lemon water, or coconut water,” he advised.
Dr Guleria further recommended using umbrellas or caps to avoid direct exposure to sunlight and staying in shaded areas whenever possible.“When outdoors, use an umbrella or a cap to avoid direct sunlight, stay in the shade, and avoid strenuous physical exertion,” he said.
He also advised people experiencing symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat cramps to immediately cool their bodies and increase fluid intake.“If you experience heat exhaustion or heat cramps, increase your intake of water and electrolytes, and consider cold sponging to help lower your body temperature,” he said.Dr Guleria urged people to remain indoors as much as possible during periods of extreme heat to prevent serious health complications.
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