Heat wave alert: How to identify signs of heat wave exposure and how to stay safe

Delhi witnessed a blistering heat wave on Monday with maximum temperatures breaching the 46-degree mark. Najafgarh was the hottest place in the capital, with mercury soaring to 46.2 degrees Celsius, reported PTI. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), similar conditions would continue before rains bring some relief from Wednesday onwards.

Heatwaves have an immense impact on human health. It can lead to cramps, exhaustion, stress and heat stroke. Very severe heat waves can even lead to death. People who are more vulnerable to heat-related illness include the elderly, children, as well as people with heart and respiratory problems, kidney diseases and psychiatric disorders. Following are the symptoms associated with several heat-related illnesses, as noted by the US CDC.

Following are the signs of heat stroke:

• High body temperature (103°F or higher)
  
• Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
  
• Fast, strong pulse
  
• Headache
  
• Dizziness
  
• Nausea
  
• Confusion
  
• Passing out​

Following are the signs of heat exhaustion:

• Heavy sweating
  
• Cold, pale, and clammy skin
  
• Fast, weak pulse
  
• Nausea or vomiting
  
• Muscle cramps
  
• Tiredness or weakness
  
• Dizziness
  
• Headache
  
• Fainting​

Following are the signs of heat cramps:

• Heavy sweating during intense exercise
• Muscle pain or spasms

Following are the signs of sunburns:

• Painful, red, and warm skin
• Blisters on the skin

Red clusters of small blisters that look like pimples on the skin, usually on the neck, chest, groin, or in elbow creases, are associated with heat rash.

Read more: 5 diet rules to lose weight without feeling fatigued

According to the National Disaster Management Authority, Government of India, following are some measures to protect yourselves from heatwave:

• Avoid going out in the sun, especially between 12.00 noon and 3.00 p.m.
  
• Drink sufficient water and as often as possible, even if not thirsty.
  
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose, and porous cotton clothes. Use protective goggles, umbrella/hat, shoes or chappals while going out in the sun.
  
• Avoid strenuous activities when the outside temperature is high. Avoid working outside between 12 noon and 3 p.m.
  
• While traveling, carry water with you.
  
• Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee and carbonated soft drinks, which dehydrates the body.
  
• Avoid high-protein food and do not eat stale food.
  
• If you work outside, use a hat or an umbrella and also use a damp cloth on your head, neck, face and limbs.
  
• Do not leave children or pets in parked vehicles.
  
• If you feel faint or ill, see a doctor immediately.
  
• Use ORS, homemade drinks like lassi, torani (rice water), lemon water, buttermilk, etc. which helps to rehydrate the body.
  
• Keep animals in shade and give them plenty of water to drink.
  
• Keep your home cool, use curtains, shutters or sunshade and open windows at night.
  
• Use fans, damp clothing and take bath in cold water frequently.
  

According to the IMD, a western disturbance active over the western Himalayan region is predicted to bring rain, hailstorm and gusty winds in the northwestern plains starting Wednesday, reported PTI. The maximum temperature will drop to 36 degrees Celsius by Thursday, IMD said.

Read more: Delhi-NCR hit by dust storm leading to severely poor air quality; note how to take care of your respiratory health