Caution heatstroke an imminent risk

Caution heatstroke an imminent risk

Mangalore Today News Network

Uupi, May 12, 2016: With temperatures in the coastal districts at danger levels and with water not being available, the Udupi district health department is creating awareness and circulating guidelines on heatstroke that can occur among vulnerable groups.

Udupi DHO, District health officer,  Dr Rohini said, "Heatstroke is a form of heat injury and is considered a medical emergency. A relative humidity of 60% or more hampers sweat evaporation, which hinders body’s ability to cool itself. More than temperature, exposure to the sun, especially durging heat waves, can increase the heat index by 15 degrees."

"Though, Udupi has not reported heatstroke-related cases, the district administration wants to be cautious. Heatstroke results from prolonged exposure to high temperatures, usually in combination with dehydration, and it leads to failure of the temperature control system of the body," she added.

People who are vulnerable to heatstroke are those who live in apartments or homes that lack proper ventilation, people with chronic diseases, people taking medications, those who drink excessive amount of alcohol, infants and children up to the age of 4, and adults over the age of 65. These people adjust to heat more slowly than others. Common symptoms of heatstroke are throbbing headache, dizziness and light-headedness, lack of sweating despite the heat, red and dry skin, muscle weakness or cramps, nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat which may be either strong or weak, shallow breathing, behavioral changes such as contusion, disorientation staggering, seizures and unconsciousness.

Drinking plenty of water is the best solution for keeping away from heat-related diseases. Avoid carbonated water (soda and aerated drinks). It is advisable to have butter milk and tender coconut. It is better to have less amount of hot beverages like coffee and tea. Vegetarian food, which are less spicy, should be consumed more to avoid heat strokes. It would be good to wear loose, cotton, light-coloured clothes. Instead of shoes, sandals and slippers should be worn.