Going outdoors during the hottest hours is discouraged and it is recommended to stay hydrated with water, fruits, vegetables, buttermilk, lemonade and coconut water. (PTI File)
A red alert has been issued due to the severe heat wave affecting the city and its surroundings.
The temperature in Delhi has been increasing and recently reached over 44 degrees Celsius. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), a red alert has been issued due to severe heatwave conditions in and around the city. This can pose a serious health risk, especially for babies, the elderly, and those who already have existing health problems. But there are many people who are still unaware of the effects of heat on their bodies.
Going outdoors during the hottest hours is discouraged and it is recommended to stay hydrated with water, fruits, vegetables, buttermilk, lemonade and coconut water. Failure to take appropriate measures to cool the body can have serious consequences. In this article, we will understand the effects of extreme heat on the human body, especially when temperatures exceed 45 degrees Celsius.
- Sunburn occurs when a person's skin is exposed to too much sunlight, specifically ultraviolet (UV) rays. Continued exposure also increases the risk of skin cancer by damaging the DNA of skin cells. Excessive sweating can also cause discomfort and itchy marks on the skin. It is important to protect your skin by wearing appropriate clothing and applying sunscreen during the day.
- Extreme heat can make it difficult to think clearly and affect a person's mental performance. Many feel uncomfortable on hot days and prolonged exposure can have a negative impact on mental health. Hyperthermia, caused by excessive heat, can damage the brain, heart, kidneys, muscles and cause long-term health problems.
- High temperatures also worsen air quality, which in turn can irritate a person's respiratory system. It can also intensify conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Heat increases the spread of allergies, which further affects overall health.
- Extreme heat puts additional pressure on the cardiovascular system, because blood vessels expand and the heart pumps harder to increase blood flow. This is particularly risky for people with a history of cardiovascular disease and older people. People with hypertension are at increased risk during heat waves.
- In extreme heat, the body loses water rapidly due to continuous sweating in an effort to cool down. Without sufficient fluid intake, it can lead to dehydration. Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, reduced urination, fatigue and dizziness. It is important to stay hydrated by drinking water and other fluids regularly during hot weather.
