A comprehensive Public Health Advisory on extreme heat conditions and heatwave has been issued by Ayush Ministry for this summer, in view of the rising temperatures and prevailing heatwave conditions in several parts of the country. It’s a grim reminder of the dangers of prolonged high temperature exposure, especially for the vulnerable—infants, children, pregnant women, the elderly, and outdoor workers.
What is Heatwave
A heatwave is a period of unusually high temperatures that can last for days or even weeks. It’s not just ‘hot weather’ because it causes stress on your body and environs.
Why is heatwave Risky?
Heatwaves can cause heat exhaustion, heatstroke, dehydration, and worsen chronic conditions such as heart disease or hypertension. Vulnerable groups are at higher risk.
Warning Signs
Watch out for dizziness, headache, nausea, confusion, seisures, or fainting. If someone shows these symptoms, it could be heatstroke — a medical emergency. Call 108 or 102 immediately.
How to Protect Yourself
• Stay Hydrated: Drink water, buttermilk, coconut water, lemon-based drinks.
• Wear Cool Outfits: Light, loose cotton clothes that breathe are cool.
• Avoid Peak Sun: Stay indoors between 11 am and 3 pm.
• Eat Cooling Food: Watermelon, cucumber, musk melon, lime, ash gourd, tomatoes.
Traditional Coping Practices include:
• Ayurveda: Cooling drinks like Nimbukaphala Panaka and coconut water.
• Yoga: Breathing techniques such as Sheetali Pranayama.
• Unani: Herbal cooling drinks and sunburn prevention.
• Homoeopathy: Precautions during peak heat hours.
Be Alert
Follow IMD heatwave alerts and take precautions when warnings are issued.
