While hospitals are bracing for rising cases of heatstroke, Delhi is caught in a dangerous spiral of health and climate emergencies
Scorching heat and high temperatures have led to a red alert by the Indian Meteorological Department across north India, with temperatures soaring to 43.3°C and a staggering heat index of 51.9°C. While hospitals are bracing for rising cases of heatstroke, the national capital, New Delhi, is caught in a dangerous spiral of health and climate emergencies.
According to doctors, severe temperature can cause potentially fatal conditions, as your body’s ability to regulate temperature can break down, causing a dangerous rise in core body temperature. It causes the brain, heart, and other vital organs to become severely damaged or even fail. And so, it is important to take proactive steps to protect your health, even if you stay indoors.
Stay hydrated
One of the best ways to get over the heatwave is to protect yourself by drinking water. According to experts, hydration is your top protection against scorching temperatures and heatwaves. Drinking water frequently throughout the day, even when you are not thirsty, helps you keep a balance.
Excessive heat leads to your body losing water rapidly – enhancing dehydration risks. So, you must at regular intervals have coconut water, lemon water, or even buttermilk to help replace lost electrolytes. However, experts warn to stay away from sugary, caffeinated, alcoholic, or even carbonated drinks, as they only increase dehydration.
Do not venture out during peak hours
The sun is always the strongest from 12 PM to 4 PM, so it is always advisable to avoid doing any outdoor activities during this time. According to experts, those who go out for walks and workouts must do it early in the morning or late in the evening when the heat becomes low.
However, if you are not able to avoid going out at that time, use shade whenever available and take breaks indoors as often as possible. Apply sunscreen of high SPF to shield exposed skin from dangerous UV radiation. Reduced exposure during these periods can decrease your risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke quite a bit.
Dress appropriately
It is important to dress appropriately for summer and prevent heatstroke. According to experts, make sure to choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Do not wear dark or artificial clothing that heats up. Also, go for light colours, which reflect sunlight and help keep you cooler.
Whenever you plan to go out, consider accessories like hats, scarves, umbrellas, and sunglasses for sun protection.
Eat healthy and light food
To prevent any kind of heat-related illness, make sure to consume foods that are light and can be easily digested by your body. Go for lots of salads, fruits, and yogurt, at least twice a day.
Doctors suggest eating high-water-content foods like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges that also keep you cool and hydrated. Totally avoid spicy, oily, and heavy foods since they not only mess up your digestive system but also raise body heat and induce discomfort.
Have small and frequent meals rather than two heavy meals to make your body comfortable
