KMC-RI sets up ICU ward to tackle heat stroke cases

Hubballi: Karnataka Medical College-Research Institute (KMC-RI), Hubballi, has established a 14-bed ICU ward as a precautionary measure for heat stroke patients as temperatures rose in the district.When the temperature of the district was observed for the last several decades, it used to be recorded at 32-33 degrees Celsius. This time, the temperature increased to 37-38 degrees Celsius. Due to such temperatures, many health problems, including headaches, fatigue, weakness, skin rashes and fever, were experienced by those who were walking around a lot in the sun.The heat stroke wards were set up with special care. All emergency medicines, including ORS, ice cubes and thermometers, were stored in the ward. Skilled doctors and staff were assigned to take care of the patients. Till now, no serious patients were admitted.The frequent rains along with summer heat also caused the situation to worsen. Hundreds of patients who were falling ill due to the heat were visiting the KMC-RI OPD. Among these, vomiting and diarrhoea, dehydration, asthma and skin diseases were major.Dr Uday Bande, HoD, medicine department, said that the ward was set up for heat stroke. Heat stroke occurs due to rising temperatures. It was opened with the intention of fulfilling the wishes of patients. It is located in the old building 02 ward of hospital and has 14 beds. The number of beds can be increased or decreased as per the requirement, he said.Dr Ishwar Hasabi, medical superintendent, KMC-RI, told TOI that this ward has all the facilities required for ventilators, monitors, ICU. So far, no cases have been reported. He said it is better to reduce public's exposure to the sun. It is advisable not to go outside from 10 am to 4 pm during the hot weather, drink clean water, consume buttermilk, wear white or light-coloured clothes, and wear slippers to prevent direct sun damage.The elderly, children and pregnant women should take special precautions. There is an increased risk of hyperthermia. If the water content in the body decreases, there is an increased risk of stroke. There is a possibility of flatulence, kidney problems and multiple organ failure. The public should be careful not to decrease the water content in the body, said Dr Hasabi.