India’s summers are getting hotter each year, with record-breaking temperatures becoming the new normal. The rising heat is not just uncomfortable — it can have serious consequences for our health. Understanding how extreme heat affects our bodies and taking the right precautions is important.
In this article, we will explore five major ways excessive heat can impact your health and discuss simple yet effective ways to prevent these risks.
1. Heat stroke – A life-threatening condition
One of the most severe health risks during extreme heat is heat stroke. It occurs when your body temperature rises above 40°C (104°F), and your body loses its ability to cool down naturally. If not treated immediately, heat stroke can lead to organ failure and even death.
Signs of heat stroke:
- High body temperature (above 40°C)
- Confusion, dizziness, or loss of coordination
- Rapid or strong pulse
- Hot, dry skin or excessive sweating
- Loss of consciousness
Prevention tips:
- Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Avoid direct sun exposure, especially between 12 pm and 4 pm.
- Wear loose, light-coloured, and breathable clothing.
- If you feel dizzy or overheated, move to a cooler place immediately.
- Use cooling methods like wet towels, cold showers, or air conditioning.
- Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated drinks, as they can increase dehydration.
- Consume more foods with high water content, such as watermelon and cucumbers.
2. Dehydration – A common yet dangerous problem
During hot weather, our bodies lose fluids rapidly through sweat. If we don’t replace these fluids, dehydration can set in, leading to a host of health problems, from mild weakness to severe organ damage.
Signs of dehydration:
- Dry mouth and skin
- Dark yellow urine or reduced urination
- Dizziness or fainting
- Rapid heartbeat
- Muscle cramps
- Feeling unusually tired or confused
Prevention tips:
- Drink water frequently throughout the day. Aim for at least three litres per day in extreme heat.
- Consume water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks, as they can cause dehydration.
- Carry a water bottle whenever you step out.
- Use electrolyte drinks if you sweat excessively.
- Eat light meals to prevent your body from overheating.
- Avoid excessive outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
- Stay in shaded areas whenever possible.
3. Heat exhaustion – A warning sign before heat stroke
Heat exhaustion occurs when your body struggles to cool itself down. It’s a step before heat stroke and can become dangerous if ignored. It often happens when people overexert themselves in the heat.
Signs of heat exhaustion:
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness or extreme fatigue
- Nausea, dizziness, or fainting
- Muscle cramps
- Cool, moist skin
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath
Prevention tips:
- Take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas if working outdoors.
- Use cooling techniques like wet towels or cold showers.
- Drink plenty of fluids, especially those rich in electrolytes.
- Avoid heavy meals, which can raise body temperature.
- If symptoms appear, rest immediately and hydrate.
- Use a health insurance app to locate the nearest hospital if the condition worsens.
- Avoid wearing tight clothing that prevents sweating.
- Rest in a well-ventilated area to help regulate body temperature.
4. Skin problems – Rashes, sunburn, and infections
Heat and sweat create the perfect conditions for skin problems, including rashes, sunburn, and fungal infections. People who work outdoors or spend a lot of time in the sun are at higher risk.
Common heat-related skin issues:
- Heat rash: Small, itchy red bumps caused by blocked sweat glands.
- Sunburn: Painful red skin, blisters, and peeling due to prolonged sun exposure.
- Fungal infections: Common in sweaty areas like underarms, groin, and feet.
- Acne breakouts: Heat and sweat can cause clogged pores, leading to pimples.
Prevention tips:
- Wear breathable, cotton clothing to absorb sweat.
- Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before stepping out.
- Shower regularly to prevent bacterial and fungal growth.
- Use talcum powder or antifungal powders if prone to infections.
- Avoid wearing tight or synthetic clothing in hot weather.
- Wash your face regularly to prevent sweat-related acne.
- Keep your skin moisturised to prevent excessive dryness.
- Avoid excessive sun exposure between 10 am and 4 pm.
5. Heart and respiratory issues – The hidden dangers
Extreme heat can put extra strain on the heart and lungs, making it dangerous for people with heart conditions, high blood pressure, or respiratory diseases like asthma. Heatwaves can also worsen air pollution, making it harder to breathe.
Risks include:
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Shortness of breath, especially in asthma patients
- Increased chances of heart attacks in the elderly
- Aggravation of respiratory diseases due to poor air quality
- Risk of stroke due to heat-induced stress
Prevention tips:
- Stay indoors when air pollution levels are high.
- Use a fan or air conditioner to maintain a cool indoor temperature.
- Avoid heavy meals, as digestion increases body heat.
- Take prescribed medications on time and keep an inhaler handy if needed.
- Consult a doctor if you experience chest pain or difficulty breathing.
- Monitor your blood pressure regularly if you have hypertension.
- Keep your environment clean to reduce allergens and pollutants.
How a health insurance app can help you during heat-related emergencies
While following preventive measures is crucial, medical emergencies can still happen. Having a reliable health insurance app ensures that you are financially prepared for any health crisis.
Benefits of using a health insurance app:
- Easy access to policy details: Check your coverage and benefits instantly.
- Locate network hospitals: Find cashless treatment options near you.
- Quick claim processing: File claims without paperwork delays.
- 24/7 customer support: Get assistance anytime, anywhere.
Conclusion
Heat-related illnesses are preventable if you take the right steps. Stay hydrated, avoid direct sun exposure, and keep your environment cool. And most importantly, have a health insurance app ready to handle unexpected medical emergencies.
