NEW DELHI: As intense heatwave conditions persist across large swathes of India, medical professionals are issuing stern warnings about the cumulative impact of high temperatures on both physical health and crucial functions like brain and eye health, particularly for vulnerable populations including children and the elderly. Hospitals in the National Capital Region are reporting a notable increase in patients presenting with heat-related illnesses, ranging from dehydration-induced headaches to more severe neurological symptoms.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that health experts attribute these rising ailments to the disruption of the body’s internal equilibrium caused by soaring temperatures, dehydration, and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. These factors can manifest as fatigue, dizziness, severe headaches, migraines, heat exhaustion, and in some cases, serious neurological complications.
Dr. Vinit Suri, Senior Consultant-Neurology at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in Delhi, observed a nearly 20 per cent surge in outpatient department (OPD) attendance in recent days. Patients are presenting with a spectrum of symptoms including severe headaches, dizziness, disorientation, fainting episodes, exacerbation of pre-existing neurological conditions, and a significant rise in migraine flare-ups. He noted that extreme heat and dehydration can compromise blood flow to the brain, disrupt electrolyte balance, and place undue stress on the nervous system, especially in individuals with underlying health issues.
Dr. Suri emphasized that symptoms such as persistent confusion, slurred speech, unusual drowsiness, seizures, or loss of consciousness are critical indicators of a potential neurological emergency and necessitate immediate medical intervention. He further explained that prolonged exposure to bright sunlight itself can act as a trigger for migraines in susceptible individuals.
Echoing these concerns, Dr. Sushma Sharma, Director of Neurology at Marengo Asia Hospitals, highlighted that individuals with pre-existing conditions like migraine and epilepsy may experience a worsening of their symptoms during periods of extreme heat. Factors such as heat-induced sleep disturbances and power outages in affected regions can further complicate their health management.
Dr. Sharma strongly advised avoiding outdoor activities during the peak afternoon hours whenever possible. For essential excursions, she recommended protective measures such as using umbrellas, wearing sunglasses, and covering the head. Maintaining adequate hydration was also stressed as paramount, as dehydration resulting from excessive sweating can lead to confusion and neurological complications. She suggested consuming natural, electrolyte-rich beverages like coconut water, buttermilk, and fresh fruit juices to replenish lost fluids.
Eye health, often overlooked during the summer months, is also reported to be significantly impacted. Dr. Neeraj Sanduja, Director at Viaan Eye and Retina Centre, pointed out that excessive exposure to sunlight, hot winds, dust, and dehydration are common culprits behind increased eye strain and infections. Symptoms such as dryness, irritation, redness, burning sensations, itching, and watery eyes are prevalent. Cases of dry eye syndrome, allergic conjunctivitis, and corneal sunburns are also being reported with greater frequency, with children and those who spend considerable time outdoors being particularly at risk.
Adding another dimension to eye-related issues, Dr. Namrata Sharma, a professor at the Dr. R.P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences in Delhi, cited the continuous use of air conditioning and increased screen time as contributing factors. The dry indoor air from air conditioners, coupled with prolonged use of mobile phones and laptops, can reduce natural tear production, exacerbating eye dryness. She warned that early symptoms like redness, blurry vision, and irritation, if ignored, can escalate into more serious conditions. Faster evaporation of the tear film due to dry air and heat is leading to a rise in allergies, dry eye, and infections.
Dr. Sharma recommended wearing UV-protected goggles when outdoors, rinsing the eyes with clean water after exposure to dust, avoiding eye-rubbing with unclean hands, utilizing lubricating eye drops, and ensuring consistent hydration throughout the day to mitigate these risks.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
