Heat Waves Can Lead To Health Risks.
What’s your favorite season? Is it summer? Years ago, I liked summers because we got to eat ice-cream, coolers, etc. The stylish thing about summer was obviously “The Holidays”. I recall visiting my grandma’s place every summer. This season has left a bunch of memories with me. But, in the past few years, it has taken a toll on the health of each individual.
Lately, there has been a huge rise in temperatures all over the world. If we talk about India specifically, it was observed at around 49 degrees in Delhi, which was the highest so far. Extreme heat waves can lead to fatal accidents or diseases. One of the reasons for these adverse temperature rises may be climate change. The burning of fossil fuels can lead to the emission of harmful greenhouse gases, which are mainly the reason for climate change.
What are Heat Waves?
Heat waves are dragged periods of surprisingly high temperatures that reduce productivity and increase morbidity and mortality. These include extreme rainfall, which has an adverse impact all over the world. Heat waves are also considered one of the natural calamities mainly caused by the release of dangerous gases into nature. A recent study shows a major increase in the death rate due to scorching heat. For illustration, France in August 2003, was seen with temperatures of 37°C during an uncommonly warm and dry summer across Europe. These unusual temperatures, when put together with a health system, were not prepared for such conditions. Limited responses and left the most vulnerable. In this case, the elderly are to suffer shattering outcomes.
Impact of Heat Waves on Health.
One of the major factors of heat waves could surely be definitely climate change. Climate change increases the threat in affections similar to heart conditions, it also affects our nervous system and can be the cause of diarrhea.
The most vulnerable individuals, in my opinion, are the migrant labourers who have to work in these adverse conditions to earn their daily wages. The marginalized sections do not have much access to facilities such as coolers, refrigerators, and other summer essentials.
The marine ecosystem has been affected on a large scale.
Heat waves are already known to be the leading cause of death in the world. The 2018 report by Sustainable Energy for All has declared that the rising temperature because of climate change and the negative impacts on societal health are likely to escalate and will worsen the effect on human health.
The extreme heat effects may include heavy breathing, restlessness, dehydration, heat stroke, heart attacks, fainting, vomiting, fever, and may also contribute to thrombogenesis (blood clots).
Indirectly, it has also affected water resources. The more the temperature rises, the more likely the oceans and rivers tend to evaporate. This will also affect hydropower production, which is mainly the biggest asset for cooling infrastructure.
How to Prevent Health-Related Issues Caused by Heat Waves.
Drink Water.
Take cool showers.
Wear light-colored and be-fitting clothes.
Try to avoid going out in the sun.
Be in a cool place or, if possible, spend many hours in air-conditioned structures.
Drink fluids similar to coconut water and sugarcane juices and add ice to them.
Eat organic food in particular.
Avoid foods that are caffeine-rich.
Avoid protein-rich foods.
Avoid dairy products.
Keep a check on family and friends.
Be self-aware and gain knowledge about the health issues caused by heat waves.
Be self-motivated.
Meditation.
Try specific yoga asanas similar to Surya Namaskara in the morning (avoid doing this exertion after 8 am in the morning).
Avoid intense physical exercises such as weight training, cardio, etc.
Take regular tests and necessary check-ups to avoid adverse conditions in the future.
Will power.
Visit or seek help for your mental stability.
Apply sunscreen up to SPF 50 to avoid skin tanning or any other skin issues.
Things to keep in mind if you are experiencing symptoms such as unconsciousness, dry skin, itching, skin rashes, cramps, dizziness, intense thirst, headaches, etc. In this situation, move immediately to a cool place, drink water to desiccate yourself, and call an ambulance or doctor immediately.
The guidelines provide the necessary key plans and strategies, and proper implementation and coordination are to be taken seriously. The main objective is to alert the population, especially those at high risk. Cities can take a charge and do the needful, such as avoiding outings and strategizing accordingly to prevent health risks due to heat. Whereas public mindfulness, collaboration with NGOs, establishing warning systems, occupational support to alleviate Heat waves, etc., are some of the key strategies that could help prevent adverse effects of Heat Waves.
Cureya has 25+ years of experience in the fitness and wellness industry and will help you live a healthy and happy lifestyle. To know more, do check the below website.
Writer- Maitrika Chandrikapure
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