Summers in Assam are pretty humid with the temperature soaring from 32 °C to 38 °C on most of the days. Though it’s quite a respite at night, during the daytime you are prone to get all sticky and sweaty due to its tropical climate. But summers can get even worse with heat exhaustion leading to heatstroke. Heatstroke in extreme cases is life-threatening.
Heat exhaustion is a condition of heavy sweating with high pulse rate during summers. It is caused by exposure to high temperatures, particularly when combined with high humidity. Without prompt treatment, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke.
Symptoms
Possible signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
- Cool, moist skin with goosebumps
- Excessive sweating
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Rapid pulse
- Low blood pressure upon standing
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea
- Headache
Fortunately, heat exhaustion is preventable but if not taken seriously can lead to heatstroke. One should immediately stop all activity and move to a cooler place, drink coolers and get in touch with a doctor.
Causes
Besides scorching heat and strenuous activity, heat exhaustion may be caused due to
- Dehydration
- Consumption of Alcohol
- Overdressing
Hacks to keep in mind
As the mercury level goes up, the risk of heat exhaustion increases. One can try these basic hacks to prevent heat exhaustion and other heat-related illnesses.
Ditch those body-hugging clothes
Wearing tightly fitted and layered clothing won’t allow your body to cool properly. Opt for light-coloured cotton fabrics so that your skin can breathe properly.
Sun? A big no
It is always advisable to stay indoors during summers because who wants sunburns? Keep your body less exposed to the sun as much as possible. Protect yourself outdoors with an umbrella, wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses and use sunscreen generously.
Go liquid
Drink plenty of fluids during these days. Staying hydrated helps to sweat and maintain normal body temperature.
Do not leave anyone in parked cars
When parked in the sun, the temperature in vehicles can rise more than 6.7 degrees Celcius in 10 minutes. It’s not safe to stay back in a parked car, even if it parked in a shady space.
Take it easy
It is better to change your workout schedule if you doing it mid-day. Try to schedule your strenuous activities for cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening.
Guwahati | First Published: Aug 12, 2019