Summer tips: Here's how you can prevent heatstroke

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New Delhi: With the arrival of the summer season, one needs to take special care of their health and take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke, heat cramps, and heat exhaustion. Heatstroke is one of the most common conditions people face during the summer season.

Heatstroke can be life-threatening, therefore, one needs to be extra cautious. Also, it needs to be treated immediately as any delay could be fatal. Heatstroke occurs when body temperature is too high due to excessive heat exposure.

Sign & Symptoms of Heatstroke

• High body temperature (104 degrees Fahrenheit and above)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache
• Dizziness and weakness
• Rapid breathing and increased heart rate
• Muscle and abdominal cramps
• Lack of sweat or sweating heavily

Precautions for Heatstroke

• Don't forget to carry a stole, hat or an umbrella to cover your head before going out.
• Drink plenty of water or other fluids to keep your body hydrated. Always carry a water bottle.
• Wear lightweight, light-coloured and loose clothes during the summer season as they absorb lesser heat.
• Avoid vigorous physical activities in hot and humid weather
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol as these can worsen the condition
• Drink lemonade or buttermilk to keep the excess body heat at bay.
• Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 before stepping out from your house
• Eat a balanced diet to lead a healthy lifestyle.
• Never, ever leave anyone, particularly children, in a parked car during hot weather. The temperature in your car can rise 20 degrees F (more than 6.7°C) in 10 minutes when parked in the sun.