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Professor of Community Medicine at VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital, V P Gautam, on Sunday advised people to take precautionary measures amid the prevailing heatwave conditions, including staying hydrated, consuming natural drinks such as shikanji and lassi and avoiding outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours.
Speaking to ANI, Gautam said there has been a rise in cases of heat-related illness (HRI) during the summer season and cautioned that such conditions could range from mild symptoms to life-threatening complications if timely care is not provided. "Heat waves during summer are leading to more heat-related illness (HRI) cases. HRI includes six conditions, with symptoms ranging from mild, such as itchy rashes, red bumps, and muscle cramps, to severe, including exhaustion, confusion, seizures, or coma," he said. He further stated that patients showing severe symptoms should be immediately shifted to a healthcare facility after administering basic cooling measures to reduce body temperature. "In severe cases, patients must be taken to a healthcare facility immediately. Before that, move them to a cooler area and lower body temperature using wet towels, water spray, or a high-speed fan," he said. Speaking on preventive care, he advised against the consumption of caffeine, alcohol and sugary drinks and instead to drink shikanji and lassi. He also advised people to wear loose-fitting and light-coloured clothes while stepping outdoors and suggested covering the head and carrying water bottles to reduce the risk of heat exposure. He also advised the people to eat seasonal fruits like watermelon, cucumber and cantaloupe and leafy vegetables. "For prevention, drink plenty of fluids (around 3-3.5 litres daily), ideally a glass every 30-40 minutes. Natural drinks like shikanji or lassi are good, but avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugary beverages. Wear loose, light-coloured clothing, cover your head outdoors, and carry water. Avoid outdoor activity between 12 pm and 4 pm, preferring mornings or evenings. Eat seasonal fruits and vegetables such as watermelon, cucumber, cantaloupe, and leafy greens," he said. "Hospitals have protocols, equipment, and cooling systems ready to manage HRI and heat stroke cases," he added. Meanwhile, accoridng to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the temperature in the national capital is expected to touch 44 degrees Celsius on Sunday morning, with heatwave conditions likely to persist in several parts of north and central India. (ANI)
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