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Currently, the entire North India region—including the capital, Delhi-NCR—is experiencing an intense heatwave and scorching temperatures. In several areas, the mercury has soared past the 40-degree mark; consequently, an 'Orange Alert' has been issued for Delhi. Health experts are advising everyone to exercise special caution regarding their health amid this blistering heat.

Residents of Delhi are currently grappling with scorching, fiery heat. The roads are baking, and by midday, gusts of hot wind—characteristic of a heatwave—begin to blow. This combination of heat and hot winds not only creates difficulties for people in carrying out their daily work but also poses a serious risk to their health. As temperatures climb above 40 degrees Celsius, the body's natural ability to regulate its internal temperature begins to falter. This significantly increases the risk of heatstroke.

Doctors warn that while the rising heat certainly heightens the risk of heatstroke, these conditions can also be particularly dangerous for kidney health. Let us explore who, in particular, needs to be extra vigilant about their kidney health during this period.

**Orange Alert in Delhi-NCR**

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted on Saturday that North-Western and Central India are likely to witness an intensification of heat and heatwave conditions over the next three days. Following this period, however, there is a possibility of some slight improvement in the weather. According to a press release issued on Saturday, heatwave conditions are also anticipated in isolated pockets across Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, and Northern Rajasthan.

The IMD has urged the public to take precautions against the heat and to prioritize their health. Meanwhile, doctors advise against venturing out into the sun during the daytime, warning that doing so could lead to serious health complications.

For certain individuals, the severe heatwave conditions could heighten the risk of kidney-related issues—potentially even leading to kidney failure.

**Heat Can Compromise Kidney Health**

Speaking to *Amar Ujala*, Senior Nephrologist Dr. Vikram Malha stated that, amidst rising temperatures, those who work outdoors during the day face the highest risk of suffering from heatstroke. Construction workers, delivery personnel, traffic police officers, farmers, and sanitation workers face a heightened risk of health issues caused by heatwaves and extreme heat.

All these individuals work outdoors in direct sunlight for extended periods, placing constant physical strain on their bodies.

Due to the heat and resulting dehydration, these groups are also observed to be at a significantly higher risk of kidney damage.

**Who is at Higher Risk?**

Doctors explain that prolonged exposure to heat leads to excessive sweating, causing the body to lose substantial amounts of fluids and electrolytes. If this fluid deficit is not replenished by consuming adequate fluids, dehydration ensues. Dehydration can lead to a reduction in blood flow to vital organs—including the kidneys—as well as other critical parts of the body.

Prolonged heat exposure and dehydration increase the risk of developing kidney stones and urinary tract infections.

Individuals suffering from diabetes or high blood pressure, as well as those with a family history of kidney disease, face an even greater risk of developing kidney-related complications.

**What Measures Can Be Taken to Keep Kidneys Healthy?**

Doctors emphasize that the most crucial step in preventing heat-induced kidney damage is to ensure the body does not suffer from a fluid deficit.

If you work outdoors, you should consume adequate amounts of water, even if you do not feel thirsty.

Employers and agencies must ensure that clean drinking water is readily available to all employees at their workplaces.

Take breaks at regular intervals in shaded or cool areas to help regulate your body temperature.

Wear lightweight, breathable cotton clothing.

Accessories such as umbrellas, hats, and sunscreen are essential for protecting yourself from direct exposure to the sun's heat.

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