Can a Heatwave Be Deadly? 5 Life-Threatening Risks of Extreme Heat and Essential Safety Tips

A heatwave poses significant risks to human health and life. Exposure to extreme temperatures can severely affect various aspects of our well-being and may even lead to serious, potentially life-threatening conditions. Many lives are lost each year due to heatwaves, making it crucial to know how to protect oneself during peak sun hours. Being out in extreme heat can silently impact both body and mind.

Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can result in potentially life-threatening conditions like heat stroke, which requires immediate medical attention as it can cause loss of consciousness and seizures. Those with pre-existing heart conditions need to be particularly cautious during heatwaves as the heat can exacerbate heart problems.

Heat Exhaustion A milder form of heat-related illness, heat exhaustion can occur after prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, and muscle cramps. If untreated, it can progress to heat stroke.

Heat Stroke In extreme heat, the body may fail to regulate its internal temperature, leading to heat stroke. Symptoms include a high body temperature (above 40°C or 104°F), confusion, loss of consciousness, and sometimes seizures. Without immediate medical intervention, heat stroke can be fatal.

Dehydration Rapid fluid loss through sweating can lead to severe dehydration. Symptoms include extreme thirst, dry mouth, reduced urine output, and in severe cases, confusion, dizziness, and fainting.

Cardiovascular Stress The heart works harder to cool the body during extreme heat, which can be particularly dangerous for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. This increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular issues.

Skin Damage High temperatures and strong sunlight can cause severe skin damage, including sunburn. Prolonged exposure increases the risk of skin cancer over time due to UV radiation.

Heatwave: Dos and Don’ts

As temperatures rise, keep the following dos and don’ts in mind to protect yourself and your family.

Don’ts:

• Avoid going outside between 12 noon and 3 pm unless necessary.
• Refrain from engaging in physically strenuous activities during high temperatures.
• Avoid consuming beverages like alcohol, coffee, and tea that dehydrate the body.
• Do not eat protein-rich or stale food.
• Never leave pets or children locked in a car.

Dos:

• Stay hydrated by drinking water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Consume hydrating foods like watermelon and homemade drinks like lemonade, lassi, and chhach, as well as oral rehydration solutions (ORS).
• Take cold-water baths and keep your home cool using shutters, sunshades, and curtains during the day, and open windows at night.
• Wear light-colored, loose, and lightweight clothing. Use protective accessories like goggles, hats, caps, umbrellas, and appropriate footwear when going out in the sun.
• Keep cool by using a damp cloth on your head and limbs, and avoid direct sunlight by using a cap or umbrella.

Heatwaves create physiological strain that can lead to death in severe cases by rapidly increasing body temperature and damaging the brain and other major organs. It is essential to stay safe and secure from the harmful effects of heatwaves and to seek medical attention immediately if symptoms arise.