Doctors Urge Caution As Heat-Related Illnesses Rise Among Adults & Children

Navi Mumbai: As temperatures soar, doctors are witnessing a rise in heat-related illnesses among both adults and children. Experts stress the importance of hydration, sun protection, and dietary precautions to prevent heat exhaustion, dehydration, and other complications.

Dr. Pallavi Patekar Highlights Key Preventive Measures To Avoid Falling Ill During Extreme Heat

Dr. Pallavi Patekar, Consultant in Internal Medicine at Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai, highlights the key preventive measures to avoid falling ill during extreme heat. She emphasizes the need to drink water regularly, even when not feeling thirsty, and to avoid direct sun exposure, especially during peak hours. “Wearing loose, light-colored clothing and applying sunscreen are crucial. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help maintain hydration levels, while avoiding strenuous physical activity during the day can prevent heat exhaustion.”

Heat-related health issues, including heat exhaustion, heat stroke, rashes, and sunburn, are common. Dr. Patekar warns that individuals with pre-existing conditions such as asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and kidney problems may experience worsening symptoms due to excessive sweating and fluid loss. “A 15% increase in patients suffering from heat-related illnesses, including dehydration and stroke, as well as exacerbations of conditions like hypertension and diabetes is witnessed now,” Dr Patekar said.

Advice Given By Dr. Sandeep Sawant

Children are particularly vulnerable to heat stress, with cases of dehydration, sunburn, and gastrointestinal issues on the rise. Dr. Sandeep Sawant, Senior Consultant in Pediatrics at Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai, advises parents to ensure their children stay hydrated throughout the day and consume healthy snacks like fruits and nuts. He stresses the importance of wearing breathable clothing, avoiding outdoor activities during peak-heat hours, and applying sunscreen. “There has been a 20-25% rise in cases of heat-related illnesses among children, largely due to a lack of proper hydration and precautionary measures,” Dr Sawant added.

Dr. Asmita Mahajan Emphasizes The Need For Hydration

Dr. Asmita Mahajan, Consultant Neonatologist and Pediatrician at SL Raheja Hospital, Mahim – A Fortis Associate, further emphasizes the need for hydration. She recommends that children drink plenty of water and electrolyte-diluted drinks, especially if they are outdoors. “Playing in the sun during the hottest parts of the day should be avoided, and children should wear light-colored cotton clothes to minimize heat absorption. Parents should also avoid giving their children street-vendor juices and unfiltered water, as contaminated beverages can lead to gastrointestinal infections,” she said. Dr. Mahajan also notes that while cases of heat exhaustion and heat stroke have not yet been observed, gastroenteritis and diarrhoea are common concerns.

Dr. Patekar’s Advice For People Fasting During Ramzan

For those fasting during Ramzan, maintaining proper nutrition and hydration is critical. Dr. Patekar advises fasting individuals to consume balanced meals that include complex carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. Foods with high water content, such as cucumbers, melons, and soups, can help prevent dehydration, while caffeinated or sugary drinks should be avoided.

Advice Given By Senior Clinical Nutritionist At Apollo Hospitals

Varsha Gorey, Senior Clinical Nutritionist at Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai, suggests that hydrating and cooling foods like watermelon, oranges, curd, and coconut water should be incorporated into the diet. Complex carbohydrates from whole grains, brown rice, and oats provide sustained energy, while lean proteins such as fish, chicken, and legumes help maintain strength. “Before the fast, consuming slow-digesting foods like whole grains, oats, and proteins such as eggs and paneer can help sustain energy levels throughout the day. After breaking the fast, start with dates, fruits, and water to restore energy, followed by a light soup before heavier meals. Deep-fried and rich foods should be avoided to prevent bloating and digestive issues,” Gorey said.

Advice Given By Chief Clinical Nutritionist At Fortis Hiranandani Hospital

Swati Bhushan, Chief Clinical Nutritionist at Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi, adds that barley flour porridge with milk is an excellent pre-fast meal due to its cooling properties and rich nutrient content. Barley provides sustained energy and essential minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. “Breaking the fast with chia seeds in drinks like Kokum sharbat or fresh lime juice can also aid hydration. Dates, rich in potassium, fiber, and antioxidants, can help replenish electrolytes and provide instant energy,” she added.

With the increasing heat, health experts emphasize that staying hydrated, eating nutritious meals, and avoiding excessive sun exposure are key to preventing heat-related illnesses. Those fasting should take extra precautions to maintain hydration levels and consume energy-sustaining foods. Parents must ensure children follow protective measures to avoid heat-related health complications.