“Ah, summer, what power you have to make us suffer and like it,” said American writer Russell Baker. There are things to like about summer: the bright, long days, the holidays, the frozen desserts, etc. But in most parts of our country, summer is seldom kind because of the soaring mercury levels. It also brings with it a whole host of health problems. Here are a few things you should be aware of, to protect yourself and enjoy the season.
Summer Health Issues:
Sunstroke:
What is sunstroke? Our body experiences an increase in temperature and is unable to regulate heat. This condition is known as sunstroke. It is more often a life-threatening health issue. It mainly occurs due to overexposure to a high temperature and strenuous physical activity in warm conditions. Working in warm conditions leads to dehydration that may cause sunstroke. Let us know the symptoms of sunstroke:
- Headache
- Loss of appetite and feeling sick
- Dizziness and confusion
- Cramps in arms, legs, and stomach
- Excessive sweating and pale, clammy skin
- Fast breathing or pulse
- Being very thirsty
- Increase in temperature above 380C
Sunstroke is a serious issue and must treat as a medical emergency. Especially, in young children and old people.
- It can be treated by lowering the body temperature with the help of ice packs, electrolyte fluids, and intravenous (IV) fluids.
- To prevent sunstroke keep the body well hydrated, avoid strenuous physical activity and minimize exposure to the sun during peak hours.
- Maintaining overall good health will help in the prevention of sunstroke.
Infections:
The unrelenting Indian summer heat can make one prone to health issues like
- Viral infections
- Various food-borne
- Waterborne diseases
- Chickenpox
- Flu
The best way to fight and prevent these summer infections are
- Reduce exposure to extreme heat
- Stay hydrated
- Wash hands frequently
- Keep an eye on the overall hygiene
Summer is the vacation season in India. It opens up the chances of food-borne infections from out-of-home eating. Particular care should be taken to avoid foods from poor storage facilities, non-hygienic conditions, poor sanitation, and bad disposal management situations.
Dehydration:
Dehydration is the major problem that everyone faces in summer along with sunstroke. Roaming around outdoors in the hot sun leads to the rapid decline of fluid levels. It is because of breathing or perspiration resulting in dehydration. Children and elderly people can get easily dehydrated. Because their body is unable to quickly adjust to temperature changes.
Here are some tips to overcome dehydration.
- Drink plenty of water, fresh lime, or coconut water to maintain body fluid level.
- Drink enough water irrespective of your thirst.
- Reduce consumption of alcohol because it leads to body fluid loss.
- Give more water, fruit juices, or any other liquid items.
- We see that sportspersons take frequent drink breaks to avoid dehydration.
Skin Issues:
The scorching heat of summer takes a toll on your skin and brings issues such as
- Dry skin
- Tanning
- Acne
- Skin rashes
- Red skin.
UV rays from the sun harm the skin and may lead to breakdown and premature aging. Prickly heat and bad-smelling perspiration can compound these problems. It is important to remember that most of these problems are because by sun and dust exposure. Lack of a good skincare regime, and excessive air conditioning.
To keep summer skin issues at bay follow these steps
- Keep your skin moisturized and hydrated with plenty of water intake
- Avoid excessive sun exposure if possible
- Use a sunscreen lotion to prevent skin tanning and harmful UV rays
- It is best to opt for a sunscreen with SPF 30 or above for Indian conditions
- Wear comfortable clothes and cover up body parts with hats and long-sleeved clothes