Heatwaves have become more frequent and intense in India in recent years due to climate change. Heatwave is a prolonged period of abnormally high temperatures, often exceeding 40 °C (104 °F), and can occur in various parts of India, especially during the summer months of April to June.
They can have serious health effects, including heat exhaustion, heatstroke, dehydration and even death, especially among vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children and people with pre-existing health conditions. Heat-related illnesses can overwhelm health care systems and have economic consequences.
These are affected by various environmental factors including urbanization, deforestation and air pollution. Urban areas with concrete structures, limited green space, and increased heat-absorbing surfaces may experience the “urban heat island” effect, leading to higher temperatures.
“Heat exhaustion cases are on the rise due to rise in temperature and humidity, resulting in dehydration and reduced sodium levels. Patients usually present with symptoms of weakness, fatigue, and dry mouth, along with a history of heat exposure. Also, there seems to be a rise in influenza cases, possibly due to increase in consumption of cold beverages,” says Dr Kishor Sathe, Consultant, Emergency Medicine, PD Hinduja Hospital & MRC, Mahim.
Who and what is most affected?
Dr. Honey Savla, Internal Medicine, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, says, “The major health effects of heat waves include dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, etc. This dehydration can lead to acute kidney injury leading to cardiac arrest. And also neurological issues like confusion.
The elderly and young children are more vulnerable to heat exhaustion, often exhibiting symptoms rather than those of heat stroke.
What happens during a heat wave?
“During a heat wave, the body loses water and sodium, which can lead to injury to the brain, kidneys, liver and muscles. Patients who have had heat stroke undergo a rectal temperature probe to assess their core temperature,” says Dr Sathe.
How to protect yourself?
The main treatment involves cooling your body down as quickly as possible. “Medical professionals can do this in a variety of ways. This may include using a fan to blow air over wet skin, pouring cold water over you, or getting you into an ice bath. If possible, you will be taken to a hospital This can be done before moving,” says Dr Savla.
Treatment includes cooling the body to bring the temperature back to normal and giving cold IV fluids to replenish lost sodium levels and combat dehydration. History of previous heat stroke should also be taken into account.
“To avoid heat-related illnesses, it is advised to stay indoors when weather warnings are issued, wear loose cotton clothes and carry an umbrella or wear sunglasses while stepping out. Additionally, drink fluids containing sodium to stay hydrated. If symptoms persist, seek immediate medical attention,” Dr Sathe concluded.
Efforts to mitigate and adapt to heatwaves in India include early warning systems, heat action plans, promotion of green spaces in urban areas, improving access to drinking water, and raising awareness about heat-related illnesses. Long-term measures to combat climate change, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable practices are also important in addressing the underlying causes of heatwaves.
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