104-105°F fever, loss of consciousness: Delhi reports two heat stroke cases

The second patient, a 50-year-old man, was brought to RML Hospital’s emergency department by a police PCR team in an unconscious condition with a very high fever. Since no family members or attendants were present, doctors could not get details about his medical history.

Delhi on Tuesday recorded the first heatwave day of the month, with dry winds and a searing sun pushing temperatures past 45°C. While Delhi hospitals have not reported any other cases of heat stroke, some hospitals said they have been reporting symptoms of heat exhaustion, cramps and rashes which occur due to excessive heat.

At Safdarjung Hospital, one case of suspected heat stroke was reported on May 18 and the patient was immediately treated as per protocols and recovered. “No death due to heat related illness recorded till date,” said Dr Charu Bamba, Medical Superintendent at Safdarjung Hospital.

According to the RML’s emergency medicine team, the West Bengal man suddenly developed high fever, altered mental state, and involuntary loss of bladder control or leaking of urine during the train journey. “His condition was critical when he arrived at the hospital,” said Dr Ajay Chauhan, Director, Professor of Medicine.

Doctors immediately placed him on a ventilator for airway protection and shifted him to the hospital’s dedicated Heat Stroke Unit. Emergency cooling treatment, including cold-water immersion, ice sponging, cold saline, and cooling around the armpits and groin, was started without delay.

According to Dr Amlendu Yadav, head of department, emergency medicine and in charge of the heat stroke unit, the patient’s body temperature dropped from 105°F to 102°F after treatment. They said toxicology tests were negative, ruling out poisoning or drug-related causes.

He has been admitted under the Department of Medicine for further treatment and monitoring.

As for the second case, doctors said the patient’s body temperature was 104°F and his condition was critical. He was immediately put on a ventilator to help him breathe. Suspecting heat stroke, doctors started emergency treatment with ice-cold water therapy in the emergency department and the heat stroke unit.

Within 15 minutes of active cooling, his body temperature was brought down to 100°F. He was then treated according to standard heat stroke treatment protocol and later shifted to the medicine department for further care. Doctors said the patient has shown initial signs of improvement.

Warning signs

According to Dr Chauhan, the cases underline the importance of quickly identifying heat stroke and starting rapid cooling treatment, which can be life-saving.

Explaining the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke, he said: “Heat exhaustion can cause heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, and muscle cramps. Heat stroke is far more serious and may lead to confusion, seizures, unconsciousness, or very high body temperature, making it a medical emergency.”

Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats and loses excessive water and salts, usually due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures. If left untreated, it can progress to heat stroke.

He said hospitalisation is necessary if symptoms do not improve, if the person has underlying illnesses, or if signs of heat stroke such as confusion, collapse, breathing difficulty, or seizures develop. Early treatment is crucial to prevent organ damage.

Precautions to take

According to Dr Chauhan, older adults, children, people with chronic illnesses, outdoor workers, and pregnant women are among the most vulnerable groups during extreme heat. Lack of access to cooling and hydration can further increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.

People should avoid going outdoors during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, wear loose cotton clothes, and take breaks in shaded or cool places. Farmers and outdoor workers should try to work during early morning or late evening hours.