Heat wave alert: Warning signs of heat exhaustion and stroke; ways to treat it

The India Meteorological Department on Sunday issued a statement suggesting that the maximum temperatures in certain parts of the country touched 46 degree Celsius. Not only has this impacted several lives, but it has also taken a toll on the crops and the power supply, making it extremely difficult for people to cope.

Amid such scorching heat waves, heat-related illnesses have become more common than ever. Doctors and medical experts believe that the rising heat could impact the body's ability to regulate temperature, leading to several heat wave conditions including heat exhaustion, heat stroke, heat cramps and more. Furthermore, experts advise those with pre-existing chronic illnesses to stay indoors and avoid going out in the sun.

Additionally, it is also imperative that you're aware of all the warning signs of heat related illnesses. Read on to find out what they are.

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Heat exhaustion is a type of heat-related illness that is an outcome of too much heat exposure. Overheating of the body could lead to heavy sweating and a rapid pulse. While its less severe than a heat stroke, it is more dangerous than a heat cramp.

Some of the symptoms include:

- Fast, shallow breathing

- Muscle aches

- Headache and dizziness

- Cool, moist skin accompanied with goose bumps

- Weak, rapid pulse

- Fatigue

- Muscle cramps

- Nausea and vomiting

Causes of a heat stroke are similar to a heat exhaustion i.e. prolonged exposure to high temperatures resulting in overheating of the body. However, a heat stroke is the most severe heat-related illness and can lead to complications.

Some of the warning signs include:

- High body temperature

- Dizziness and headache

- Fatigue and weakners

- Loss of consciousness

- Altered mental behaviour

- Flushed skin

- Rapid breathing and heart palpitations

- Nausea and vomiting

As soon as one experiences heat exhaustion or stroke, they should halt all activities and resort to a cooler place. Drink lots and lots of water. Take some immediate measures to cool off the body. Either wet a towel and place it over the skin or take a cold shower. You can also apply ice packs on the armpits, groin, neck, and back.

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If a person experiences a heat exhaustion or a heat stroke, immediately seek medical support.

The best way to beat the heat is to stay indoors. While an air-conditioned room would feel like heaven, those concerned about its climatic impact could resort to a naturally cooler area in the house. Apart from that, here are some ways you can prevent heat-related illnesses from occurring in the first place.

- Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing

- Hydrate yourself frequently

- Apply sunscreen when stepping out for urgent errands

- Check the weather forecast and if it warns against heat waves, try and postpone outdoor activities.

- You can also monitor the colour of your urine. Darker urine means dehydration

- Avoid alcohol or caffeine consumption

- Have hydrating fruits and veggies