What do the guidelines say?

The guidelines released by the union government, advises people to “stay hydrated , block direct sunlight, avoid activity in the sun, and avoid going out” during the afternoon. The health ministry also recommended that people take special care and monitor the health of people who might be vulnerable due to age or low immunity.

Can heat waves impact your health?

Yes. Dr Saibal Chakravorty, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Metro Hospital, Noida, explains to FIT that there are three ways in which heat impacts our health: Heat exhaustion Heat cramps Heat stroke Dr Pankaj Chaudhary, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Max Hospital, Vaishali, agrees with Dr Chakravorty.

According to Dr Chakravorty, “Heat can impact people differently depending on the length of exposure – prolonged exposure can cause severe consequences.” But, Dr Chaudhary adds that people who have a lower immunity are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Older people, children, people who have comorbidities and chronic diseases – for instance, diabetes, lung, or heart diseases – are also at a greater risk. Anyone suffering from a heat-related condition can have these symptoms: Restlessness Cramps in lower limbs Excessive sweating Dehydration Headache Lethargy and fatigue Swelling Rashes

What are the health-related precautions that people should be taking during heat waves?

Both the experts that FIT spoke to suggest some preliminary measures that people can take when the temperatures are rising. Try to avoid heat exposure, especially for prolonged periods. Increase your fluid intake to stay hydrated – consume water, coconut water, buttermilk, fruit juices, ORS, etc. Avoid soft drinks or beverages that can lead to dehydration. When the sun is at its peak, don’t step outside or try to be in cooler areas. Wear lighter clothes, caps/hats, sun goggles, and sunscreen. Don’t exercise or run outside when the sun is at its peak.

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Health Ministry Issues Heatwave Guidelines: How to Protect Against Extreme Heat?

The IMD sounded an alert for heat waves and “extreme heat conditions” in the country between April-June.

Garima Sadhwani

Published: 06 Apr 2024, 9:30 AM IST

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With temperatures increasing and summer fast approaching, the Union Ministry of Health has released a set of guidelines to prevent heat-related illnesses.

On Wednesday, 3 April, the Ministry, in a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), wrote,

“Union Health Minister, Dr @mansukhmandviya, held a review meeting today with stakeholders to assess their preparedness in tackling heat-related illnesses stemming from heat waves, and to discuss the action plan for the upcoming summer season.”

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Health Ministry Issues Heatwave Guidelines: How to Protect Against Extreme Heat?

The IMD sounded an alert for heat waves and “extreme heat conditions” in the country between April-June.

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Topics: Heatwave heat waves