Dr. Narendra Palan
Site Occupational Health Physician. B.A.S.F India Ltd
Heat stress is the leading cause of weather-related deaths and can exacerbate underlying illnesses including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, mental health, asthma, and can increase the risk of accidents and transmission of some infectious diseases.
How does heat impact health?
The amount of heat stored in the human body is determined by a combination of
(a) An inability to eliminate internally generated heat from metabolic processes due to environmental heat stress (for example, high temperature, high humidity, low wind, high thermal radiation),
(b) Clothing creating a barrier to heat loss,
(c) External heat gain from the environment.
The body’s inability to regulate internal temperature and eliminate heat gain in such conditions increases the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Tips to remain healthy in heat/ summer climate:
Watch your meal. Freshly cooked and properly stalked. Eat fibrous vegetables and fruits with high water content- tomatoes, watermelons, oranges, cucumber, papaya etc.
Stay hydrated- take 2 to 3 litres of water, fresh fruit juice, lemonade, butter milk, coconut water etc. minimize alcohol, coffee, fizzy drinks
Avoid going out in afternoons
Maintain good hygiene. Take cold water bath 2-3 times to avoid body odour and fungal infections. Wear daily washed white loose fitting cotton clothes
Cultivate active lifestyle.
Take care of your eyes. Wash eyes with cold water often. Avoid direct sunlight. Wear sunglasses when you got out in hot sun.
Ensure skin care. Use sunscreen of minimum SPF 30, hats, alovera and turmeric may be applied on skin.
Fortify diet with vitamins and micronutrients- citrus fruits and vitamin b complex if feeling weak.
Guard against injuries – wear appropriate sportswear and keep first aid kit ready.
Consult doctor when needed.
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