As intense summer heat continues to affect several parts of Odisha, doctors and health experts have warned that prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can trigger several serious health complications, including dehydration, heat cramps, low blood pressure, and heat stroke.

With daytime temperatures remaining unusually high in many districts, hospitals are also witnessing an increase in people complaining of weakness, dizziness, vomiting, and heat exhaustion-related symptoms.

Dehydration and heat stroke major concerns

Health experts said excessive heat causes rapid loss of fluids from the body, leading to dehydration. When the body loses too much water and essential salts, people may feel weak, tired, and dizzy. In many cases, nausea and vomiting are also reported.

Doctors further said extreme heat can cause painful muscle cramps in the hands, legs and stomach due to loss of water and minerals from the body. This condition is commonly referred to as heat cramps.

In severe situations, people may suffer heat stroke, one of the most dangerous heat-related illnesses. Doctors said heat stroke occurs when the body temperature rises sharply and the body fails to cool itself naturally.

Symptoms may include high fever, confusion, breathing difficulty, unconsciousness, and extreme weakness. If treatment is delayed, heat stroke can even become fatal.

Existing health conditions may worsen

Experts warned that extreme heat can worsen several existing health issues, especially among elderly persons and people already suffering from respiratory diseases, heart ailments, and blood pressure-related complications.

Loss of body fluids may also lead to low blood pressure, causing fainting and severe dizziness in some cases.

Doctors said children, senior citizens, pregnant women and people working outdoors remain the most vulnerable during heatwave conditions and need extra care and monitoring.

Precautionary measures during extreme heat

Health experts have advised people to follow these precautions during the ongoing heatwave conditions:

* Drink more water than usual throughout the day
* Consume ORS and lemon water regularly
* Avoid going outdoors unless absolutely necessary
* Stay indoors during peak afternoon hours
* Wear loose and light-coloured clothes
* Use umbrellas, caps or wet towels while stepping outside
* Eat water-rich fruits such as watermelon and cucumber
* Avoid oily and excessively spicy food
* Take special care of elderly persons, children and pregnant women

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Doctors have also urged people not to ignore symptoms such as dizziness, excessive sweating, weakness, headache or vomiting and advised immediate medical consultation if such problems persist during extreme heat conditions.