Summer Special: How To Protect Yourself From Sunstroke

It’s summer time already and the Odisha government has issued a sunstroke alert on Wednesday. Intense heat wave conditions are expected throughout the state.

OB brings you a list of Dos and Don’ts to protect yourself during these times –

–        Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and fluids. Carry a bottle of water everywhere you go.

–        Wear light-coloured, loose fitting, cotton clothes that will keep you cooler.

–        Avoid venturing out during peak afternoon. If you have to, take precautions.

–        Shade is important. Use umbrella or cap. If you have to stand somewhere, try to find a tree shade as trees absorb heat and transpire water vapour.

–        Eat light and healthy, avoid spicy and oily food.

–        Avoid excess alcohol.

–        Wash your face in cold water at regular intervals.

–        Exercise and physical activities should be avoided during the afternoon.

According to info on Care Hospitals’ website, the symptoms of a heat stroke are

 – Throbbing headache,

 – Increase in pulse rate

–  High body temperature

–  Dryness in the mouth & dehydration,

– Muscle cramps

– Weakness or Partial or complete unconsciousness.

If someone you know faces such symptoms, move the affected person immediately to a cool, shady area, preferably under a fan and make lie down with feet slightly raised to prevent shock. Remove all extra clothing such as caps, socks to increase the cooling the process. Apply a cool wet cloth on the body, give salted buttermilk, coconut water or ORS water if the person is conscious and not vomiting. Massage affected areas of muscle cramps and shift to a hospital as soon as possible.