Health Risks Due to Hottest Summer

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Temperatures in India and around the world have been rising since the winter season ended. Even the IMD (India Meteorological Department) has warned of even hotter days ahead, with temperatures in many parts of India expected to be higher than normal during the March-May period. The month of February in India was the warmest since 1901. The temperature scale read 29.5 degrees Celsius as the highest average maximum temperature across the country.

While summer is typically a time for fun outdoor activities, this year it is important to recognize the potential health risks that come with the hottest summer temperatures.

High temperatures can cause a range of health problems, from mild heat exhaustion to life-threatening heatstroke. Let us explore the health risks due to hottest summers.

Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke

One of the most immediate and dangerous health risks of hot summer weather is heat exhaustion and heatstroke. These conditions occur when the body is exposed to high temperatures and cannot regulate its internal temperature. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include nausea, dizziness, headache, and heavy sweating, while symptoms of heatstroke include confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness. Both conditions can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.

Dehydration

Dehydration is another significant risk during hot summer weather. As the body sweats to regulate temperature, it loses water and electrolytes. Without proper hydration, dehydration can occur, leading to symptoms such as headaches, dry mouth, and fatigue. Severe dehydration can also result in kidney failure and other serious health complications.

Skin Damage

Prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays during hot summer weather can also cause skin damage, such as sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. It is essential to protect your skin by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.

Air Pollution

Hot summer temperatures can also exacerbate air pollution, leading to health risks for those with respiratory conditions. High temperatures can increase the concentration of ground-level ozone, which can cause respiratory irritation and exacerbate asthma and other respiratory illnesses.

Prevention and Safety Tips

To protect yourself and your loved ones from the health risks associated with hot summer weather, consider implementing the following safety tips:

  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol and caffeine.
  • Seek shade and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm).
  • Wear lightweight, light-colored, and breathable clothing.
  • Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours or more often if swimming or sweating.
  • Use air conditioning or fans to cool indoor spaces.
  • Check on vulnerable populations, such as elderly neighbors or those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and seek medical attention if needed.

Therefore by taking the necessary precautions and staying informed, you can enjoy the summer while also protecting your health and wellbeing.


Symptoms of Brain Stroke

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Brain Stroke

A brain stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, resulting in damage to brain tissue. Strokes are one of the leading causes of disability and death, and prompt recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term complications.

Some of the early signs or symptoms of a Brain Stroke include 

Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body : One of the most common signs of a brain stroke is sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, such as the face, arm, or leg. This symptom is usually sudden and may occur without warning. The weakness or numbness may be mild or severe, and it may affect one side of the body more than the other.

Trouble speaking or understanding speech : Another common symptom of a brain stroke is trouble speaking or understanding speech. This may include slurred speech, difficulty finding words, or a complete inability to speak. People who experience this symptom may also have difficulty understanding what others are saying to them.

Vision problems : People who experience a brain stroke may also have vision problems, such as blurred or double vision, or a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes. They may also have trouble seeing objects clearly or may experience visual disturbances, such as seeing flashing lights or zigzag lines.

Dizziness or loss of balance : Another common symptom of a brain stroke is dizziness or loss of balance. This may include feeling unsteady or lightheaded, or having trouble walking or standing up. People who experience this symptom may also feel as though the room is spinning around them.

Severe headache : A sudden, severe headache, often described as the worst headache of your life, may also be a sign of a brain stroke. The headache may be accompanied by vomiting or nausea, and it may be more severe when lying down.

It’s important to note that the symptoms of a brain stroke may vary depending on the part of the brain affected and the severity of the stroke. In some cases, people may experience only one or two of these symptoms, while in others, they may experience several. Additionally, some people may experience warning signs of a stroke, such as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), which is a temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain. TIAs are often called “mini-strokes” and may be a warning sign that a more severe stroke is imminent.

Time is of the essence when it comes to treating a stroke, and prompt treatment can help to minimize the damage to the brain and prevent long-term complications. Remember, “time lost is brain lost.”

Recognizing the symptoms or signs of a brain stroke is crucial for early detection and treatment. If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.

Archana Hospitals is equipped with the latest technology to diagnose these symptoms and specialists are just a call away to answer any of your questions. 

H3N2 Virus and Preventing Its Spread

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The H3N2 virus is a subtype of the influenza A virus that can cause respiratory illness in humans. Symptoms of H3N2 virus infection are similar to those of other types of influenza, including fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can lead to complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or even death, especially in the elderly, young children, and people with weakened immune systems.

The H3N2 virus is highly contagious and can spread from person to person through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching one’s nose, mouth, or eyes. Therefore, taking steps to prevent its spread is essential to avoid getting sick and reduce the risk of outbreaks.

Preventing the Spread of H3N2 Virus :

Get vaccinated: Getting an annual flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from getting infected with the H3N2 virus or other influenza strains. The vaccine is recommended for everyone over the age of six months, especially those at high risk of complications from the flu, such as pregnant women, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions.

Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating or touching your face. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve when coughing or sneezing, and dispose of used tissues immediately.

Cover Your Mouth and Nose: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve when you cough or sneeze. Dispose of used tissues immediately.

Avoid close contact with sick people: If you are sick, stay home to avoid spreading the virus to others. If you are healthy, try to stay away from people who are sick, especially if they have flu-like symptoms.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces: Use a disinfectant cleaner to wipe down commonly touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, keyboards, and phones, to reduce the spread of germs.

Practice good health habits: Take care of your overall health by getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress. A healthy lifestyle can boost your immune system and reduce the risk of getting sick.

Therefore reduce the risk of getting infected by getting vaccinated and adopting other hygiene practices. Do not hesitate to call a Specialist at Archana Hospitals if you have further questions.