The Free Press Journal

How to take care of yourself from severe heat?

- DR VIKRANT SHAH Dr Vikrant Shah is a Consulting physician, intensivis­t and infection disease specialist Zen Multispeci­ality Hospital Chembur

Are you aware? The effects of rising temperatur­es and extreme heat can invite various illnesses and deaths. Yes, you have heard it right! Heatstroke can be worrisome during the hotter days of summer. Read on to know more about why hot weather conditions can be problemati­c for you, and what precaution­s you have to follow to heatproof yourself and stay healthy.

Summer is often thought to be pleasing! But, it can steal your peace of mind. The extreme heat can make one prone to heat-related illness, and even death. People suffer from heatrelate­d illnesses when their bodies are unable to properly cool themselves. Did you know? People from all age groups have a chance of suffering from heat-related illness and even death too.

The bothersome heatwave can claim many lives. During extreme heat, one will get dehydrated, may develop heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or even heat stroke. Heatstroke is a medical emergency that causes permanent damage to important organs, or even death, if not treated immediatel­y. Extreme heat can also worsen one’s existing medical conditions. Here we tell you how to cope with extreme heat and stay fit and fine.

Try to increase your fluid intake. Drink enough water to avoid dehydratio­n or constipati­on.

Keep yourself cool by opting for wet towels, putting your feet in cool water, and taking cool showers. Be in an air-conditione­d room.

Make sure to block out the sun at home during the day by closing curtains and blinds. Open the window when the sun is not so harsh and the weather is cool outside.

If you are required to be out in the sun then wear a hat, cap, scarf, and sunscreen, and seek shade. Try to postpone the outing, if you have to go in the afternoon as the sun’s UV rays can damage the skin and cause various problems such as sunburn, pigmentati­on, and even cancer.

Opt for -colored, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton and linen. Don’t forget to use sunglasses when you have to venture out.

Try to exercise daily, and eat a well-balanced diet inclusive of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, pulses, and lentils. Have buttermilk (chaas), nimbu pain, or coconut water. Eat watermelon, muskmelon, and cucumbers. Avoid junk, spicy, oily, processed, and canned food that can lower your immunity. Eat smaller meals more often and salads. Store the food in the refrigerat­or instead of keeping it outside. Do not overeat an have a light dinner to avoid acidity, heartburn, and indigestio­n.

Avoid leaving children or pets in cars when the weather is hot outside.

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