Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Jul 3: As Jammu and Kashmir continues to reel under an intense heatwave, health experts are raising alarms over the surge in heat-related illnesses.
They said that from gastrointestinal infections to life-threatening cardiovascular complications, the soaring temperatures are posing a serious threat to public health.
Doctors said that extreme heat can trigger a wide range of diseases, especially among vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Dr Nisar Ahmad Mir, a noted physician posted in south Kashmir, said that heatwaves drastically increase the risk of gastrointestinal issues like diarrhoea, vomiting, and food poisoning, particularly due to the consumption of unhygienic or spoiled food.
“During summers, food spoils faster, especially street food and items like meat, milk, and juices. These can quickly become breeding grounds for bacteria, leading to gastroenteritis and related infections,” he said.
Dr Nisar added that junk food, commonly consumed by youth and children during summer outings, also contributes to stomach-related issues. In many cases, children develop tonsillitis or throat infections due to consuming ice-cold or contaminated beverages, he said.
Another major concern during a heatwave is dehydration, which can lead to electrolyte imbalance, fatigue, and even heatstroke in extreme cases, he added.
Doctors said that heat waves can also have a serious impact on those suffering from hypertension and cardiovascular conditions.
Dr Showkat Ahmad, a cardiologist, said temperatures can cause blood pressure to fluctuate, and in hypertensive patients, this can increase the risk of stroke or heart attack. Such cases, he said, have been reported in Kashmir in the last few weeks.
In some instances, the body’s natural cooling system can fail under prolonged exposure to heat, leading to heat exhaustion or heatstroke — a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.,” Dr Ahmad said.
Doctors advised people to drink plenty of water, even if not thirsty. “Avoid alcohol, sugary drinks, and caffeinated beverages, which can increase dehydration,” they said.
They advised, “Avoid stale, oily, or spicy food. Opt for freshly cooked meals and fruits like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges that have high water content, limit outdoor activities between 12 pm and 4 pm, when temperatures are at their peak, prefer cotton and light-coloured clothing to allow ventilation and reduce heat absorption and always refrigerate perishable items and ensure proper hygiene while preparing and consuming food.”
The doctors further advised to use ORS and electrolyte solutions, especially for children and the elderly who are more susceptible to dehydration.
Kashmir has been undergoing a severe heat wave for the past one month. (KNO)
