***Heat wave alert issued by health department; risk to rise / Dr Mandeep Kamal Children, elderly and labourers asked to take extra precautions

***Heat wave alert issued by health department; risk to rise / Dr Mandeep Kamal
Children, elderly and labourers asked to take extra precautions
Hoshiarpur/Daljeet Ajnoha/May 20
The district health department of Hoshiarpur has issued a comprehensive advisory to prevent heat wave (loo) and heat-related illnesses, after the meteorological department warned of a steady rise in temperatures over the coming days. The season’s early onset of high temperatures has prompted authorities to urge residents to remain vigilant.
Dr Mandeep Kamal, Civil Surgeon, Hoshiarpur, said that ambient temperatures of 40 degrees Celsius or higher are regarded as a heat wave. She warned that such extreme heat disrupts the body’s temperature-regulation mechanisms and can cause serious heat-related illnesses. She said heat waves are more likely during May and June and urged both the general public and vulnerable groups to exercise special caution.
Dr Kamal said heatstroke is the most severe heat-related illness. Symptoms include a body temperature above 40°C, dizziness, fainting or confusion, hot dry and flushed skin, severe headache, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing and muscle weakness. She advised that anyone showing these signs should be taken to the nearest health facility immediately.
In suspected heatstroke cases, the Civil Surgeon advised moving the patient to a cool place, loosening clothing, placing wet towels or cloths on the body and using a fan. If the patient is conscious, small sips of cool water should be given. Applying ice packs to the body and transporting the patient to hospital without delay were recommended. If possible, patients should be taken to hospital in an air-conditioned vehicle, as treatment delays can be life-threatening.
She also appealed to the public to avoid dehydration. Residents were advised to drink ample water during hot weather and to sip water regularly even before feeling thirsty. Sweet and salty drinks such as lemonade, lassi, ORS, and coconut water help maintain hydration and electrolyte balance.
Who is at higher risk
Newborns and young children, pregnant women, the elderly, labourers, people with obesity, psychiatric patients, and those with heart disease, uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes, kidney or liver disease, or heavy alcohol use are at greater risk of heat illness. People who work outdoors for long periods and athletes should also take extra precautions.
What not to do
Avoid going out between 12 noon and 4 pm.
Avoid prolonged cooking in the kitchen during extreme heat; ensure adequate ventilation.
Do not overconsume alcohol, tea, coffee, carbonated or very sugary drinks, as these can cause dehydration.
Avoid fried and oily foods.
Take care when sitting in a parked vehicle in the sun; never leave children, elderly persons or pets unattended in a closed vehicle.
Do not move suddenly from a very cold place into extreme heat, and avoid drinking very cold water immediately.
What to do
Wear light-coloured, loose cotton clothing to help keep the body cool.
Cover the head with a cloth, cap, umbrella, towel, turban or scarf to avoid direct sun exposure.
Carry a water bottle when going out and sip water at regular intervals.
Increase intake of fluids such as lemonade, lassi, coconut water, buttermilk and ORS.
Eat hydrating seasonal fruits and vegetables such as watermelon, oranges, grapes, cucumber and tomato.
While working in the sun, take periodic breaks in the shade and keep the body cool.
Use sunscreen and dark sunglasses when stepping out.
The health department appealed to residents to follow the advisory and protect themselves and their families from heat-related illness. Anyone who develops severe symptoms has been urged to seek immediate care at the nearest health facility