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increasing problem of heat

Temperature is increasing rapidly in various areas of India including Delhi-NCR. The intensity of heat has become so high that people are feeling uncomfortable and tired. The Meteorological Department has warned of ‘heatwave’ at many places in the coming days. During this time, health problems like dehydration and heatstroke may increase. Therefore, it is necessary to have information about both these conditions. Often people consider them to be the same, but this is wrong. Let us understand the main differences between the two from Dr. Rajinder Kumar Singhal, Head, Department of Internal Medicine, BLK-Max Super Specialty Hospital:

Dehydration: lack of water in the body

Dehydration occurs when there is a lack of water in the body. This happens when you don’t drink more water than you lose through sweat and other processes. It is a slow process, which starts with mild symptoms and can gradually have serious effects on health.

signs of dehydration

**Dryness:** Stickiness in the mouth or roughness in the throat.

**Color of urine:** Dark colored urine is a sign of dehydration. Healthy urine should be light in color.

**Headache:** Dizziness or persistent headache when standing suddenly.

**In children:** Crying without tears or being unusually lethargic.

Heatstroke: Serious Health Problem

Heatstroke is a serious medical emergency. This happens when the body’s temperature regulator does not function properly. The body temperature can reach 40°C or more within a few minutes, threatening the brain and other organs.

warning signs of heatstroke

**Mental fogginess:** Difficulty speaking or sudden irritability.

**Skin changes:** Skin may become very hot or dry.

**Fast heartbeat:** Fast heartbeat.

**Severe symptoms:** Vomiting or fainting.

Tips to stay safe in summer

To avoid heat- problems, keep the following things in mind:

**Keep drinking water:** Don’t wait until you feel thirsty. Always keep a water bottle with you.

**Keep time in mind:** Avoid going out between 12:00 and 4:00 pm.

**Other drinks:** Apart from plain water, also drink drinks like lemonade.

**Pay attention to the warning signs:** If you do not feel well, go to a cool place immediately.