Increased cases of heat stroke registered in city

Increased cases of heat stroke registered in city

Pune: As the mercury in Pune touched 42.9 degree Celsius on Saturday, the city witnessed an increase number of patients suffering from dehydration and heat stroke. 

Puneites, who have been outdoors during the afternoon or have been in the sun for long hours, are reported to have various symptoms of sunstroke as well, according to city-based doctors.

Speaking to Sakal Times, Dr Dinesh Lalwani, a city-based doctor, noted that patients should look for common as well as uncommon symptoms if they are outdoors when the heat is intense. He noted that in the last three days, he has given treatment to over 30 patients with symptoms of heat stroke and dehydration.

“Common symptoms are fainting, throbbing headache, dizziness and lightheadedness, lack of sweating despite the heat, red, hot, and dry skin are common symptoms. Some may also show symptoms like muscle weakness or cramps, nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, which may be either due to strong or weak breathing,” said Dr Lalwani. He further added that some patients may have behavioural changes such as confusion, disorientation, or staggering.

“Some patients even get seizures and suffer from unconsciousness due to exposure to the sun for long hours in summer,” said Lalwani.

He further added that senior citizens, as well as children, are advised to stay indoors when the heat is intense. Speaking to Sakal Times, Dr Sonali Salvi from Sassoon General Hospital said that in order to keep the body temperature normal, wet scarf should be used.

“A person, especially who works outdoors during afternoon hours, should focus on keeping the body hydrated and body temperature normal. Using a wet cloth over the head can help. Also, hydrating with energy drinks can be beneficial,” said Dr Salvi.

She further added that there is also an increased risk of Urinary Tract Infection among women due to dehydration and hence equal importance should be given to keep yourself hydrated.

Emergency guidelines issued by the Health Ministry 
* Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.

* Use a sunscreen, which is suitable for your skin.

* Drink extra fluids. To prevent dehydration, it’s generally recommended to drink plenty of water, fruit juice or vegetable juice. It may be advisable to substitute an electrolyte-rich sports drink for water during periods of extreme heat and humidity.

* Monitor the colour of your urine. Darker urine is a sign of dehydration. Be sure to drink enough fluids to maintain very light-coloured urine.

* Take additional precautions when exercising or working outdoors. During exercise, you should consume another eight ounces (at least two glasses) of water every 20 minutes, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

* If possible, avoid direct sun exposure. Stay in cool area ‘preferably during the hottest part of the day.’

* Avoid fluids containing caffeine or alcohol, because both substances can make you lose more fluids and worsen heat-related illness.

* At home, draw your curtains, shades or blinds during the hottest part of the day, and open windows at night on two sides of your room to create cross-ventilation.

* Make sure babies and children drink plenty of fluids.

* Avoid bundling infants in heavy blankets or clothing.
 

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