Stepping outside for even a few minutes these days means feeling the heat in a new way! The roads seem to shimmer, the air feels heavy, and walking even small distances can be exhausting. Temperatures are rising in many areas of India, and doctors state the concern has shifted from experiencing discomfort to ensuring safety. A new form of impairment related to heatwaves and their effects, widely recognised as ‘heat stress’, is worrying medical practitioners.
What Exactly Is Heat Stress?
Heat stress happens when the body struggles to regulate its temperature and cool itself effectively. While sweating is the body’s natural defence mechanism, excessive heat and humidity can reduce its ability to work properly. Subsequently, the body begins to overheat, and the ‘normal’ temperature goes way higher than what it should be, catching you completely off guard.
The symptoms seem harmless and show up as regular summer pangs. From fatigue, sweating, dizziness, headaches, to irritability, you simply brush them off as nothing more than “typical summer weariness”. These symptoms, however, are amongst the first signs of heat stress, and the first signs of the body struggling to regulate its temperature. Alarmingly, experts say that ignoring these early signs can be risky, as heat stress may quickly progress into heat exhaustion or even heatstroke.
Who Is Most at Risk?
According to several doctors and widespread research, the elderly, young children, and pregnant women are most susceptible to heat stress. Additionally, people who spend a lot of time outdoors, due to work commitments or exercise routines, may also be affected. Heavy physical activity or inadequate hydration makes matters worse.
High humidity can make the heat feel far more exhausting than the actual temperature suggests. When the air is already heavy with moisture, sweat does not evaporate easily, making it harder for the body to cool down naturally. That is why, even after sunset, many people still feel sticky, restless, and uncomfortably warm during humid summer nights.
Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
Sudden disorientation, dizziness, excessive fatigue, breathing difficulty and unusually hot skin are the tell-tale signs of heat stress. If you, or anyone around you, experiences these symptoms, move to a cool place immediately. Loosen tight clothing, apply cool packs and seek immediate medical attention.
Awareness and prevention
Experts strongly say that awareness is the need of the hour. Once you know the dangers, you can stay prepared. The first step is to stay hydrated. Also, avoid staying in direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time. Wear loose, cotton clothes at all times. In addition, avoid rich and spicy food, along with caffeinated drinks, as they dehydrate you further.
As temperatures continue to rise, staying alert, hydrated, and informed could make all the difference during the peak summer months.
Source: Economic Times
Was this article helpful?
Popular News
Latest News
