Hosps witness rise in heat-related cases

Kanpur: With temperature soaring and heatwave conditions intensifying, hospitals are witnessing a steady influx of patients suffering from heatstroke and other heat-related ailments. Medical experts warn that rising temperatures pose a serious threat to public health if precautionary measures are not followed.Dr SN Shukla advised that many heat-related complications can be prevented by maintaining adequate hydration and keeping the body cool. He explained that the human body functions optimally at 37°C, with sweating playing a key role in regulating this temperature. "To sustain sweating, it is essential to drink water at short intervals. When the body is dehydrated, it reduces or stops sweating, leading to a rise in internal body temperature," he said.He further cautioned that when external temperatures exceed 45°C, the body's cooling mechanism may fail, causing internal temperature to rise dangerously. At around 42°C, blood begins to heat up, and vital proteins start to break down. Dehydration thickens the blood, lowers blood pressure, and disrupts blood supply to critical organs, particularly the brain, potentially leading to coma and even death.Doctors recommend drinking at least three litres of water daily, while people with kidney-related conditions should increase intake to 6–8 litres as advised. Inclusion of fluids such as lassi, buttermilk, coconut water, lemon and bael sherbet, and rose drinks in the daily diet is also encouraged. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, consuming fruits and vegetables, and taking cool baths can help reduce risks.Weather expert Dr. Sunil Pandey highlighted that indoor humidity can be maintained by placing open containers filled with water in rooms, which may offer some relief during extreme heat.Eye specialist Dr Sangeeta Shukla emphasized the importance of eye care during heatwaves. She advised avoiding direct sunlight exposure, washing eyes with clean cold water, and using UV-protection sunglasses. "Use lubricating eye drops only on a doctor's advice. If irritation persists, consult an eye specialist immediately," she said, adding that touching eyes with unclean hands or sharing personal items like handkerchiefs should be avoided.Health experts unanimously stress that heatwaves are a serious concern and urge citizens to take preventive steps to safeguard themselves during the peak summer months.
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