Sudden temperature spike in Mumbai puts diabetic and respiratory patients at more risk

“This can result in a many of illnesses, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and Hyperthermia,” said Dr Farah Ingale, Director-Internal Medicine, Fortis Hiranandani Hospital.

Diabetes, a widespread health issue in India, affects a substantial portion of Mumbai’s population.

Doctors outlined that high temperatures bring a unique set of challenges for those living with this chronic condition. Dehydration, a common consequence of excessive heat, can lead to fluctuating blood sugar levels, making it difficult for the body to regulate glucose effectively.

“Along with Diabetes Mellitus Type 2, patients living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), are more vulnerable to developing complications than the average population. The high temperatures can cause a strain on the heart and lead to cardiac problems. People who are vulnerable to this condition must take the required precautions. Additionally, rising body temperatures can make breathing difficult, which can be fatal and risky for people with respiratory problems like Asthma and COPD,” Dr Ingale added.

According to IMD Mumbai’s scientist, Sushma Nair, Mumbai can expect warm temperatures, similar to the 36 degrees Celcius recorded Monday, for the next 2-3 days. Dry easterly and north easterly winds in lower levels are responsible for this sudden temperature increase. Poor air quality, often exacerbated by hot weather, can lead to increased respiratory distress. Ground-level ozone, a common pollutant during such conditions, can trigger or worsen respiratory symptoms, leading to more frequent asthma attacks, warned doctors.

Dr Jalil Parker, pulmonologist explained: “Dehydration in hot weather can cause airway inflammation, making it harder for individuals with respiratory conditions to breathe. The added stress on the respiratory system due to the extreme heat intensifies these challenges.”

The city has witnessed a stark escalation within a day, with the maximum temperatures for Santacruz observatory recorded at 33 degrees Celsius between Sunday and Monday morning and then soaring to 35.9 degrees on Monday afternoon.

Doctors also outlined how the extreme heat could create conditions conducive for viruses to thrive, potentially leading to a rise in cold and fever cases.

High temperatures can weaken the human body’s immune response, making it more susceptible to viral infections.

“Viral illnesses like the common cold are primarily caused by rhinoviruses. These viruses tend to thrive in conditions with low humidity, which can occur when temperatures soar. When the air is dry, the virus particles remain suspended longer, increasing the chances of transmission from person to person,” said Dr Gautam Bhansali, consultant physician at Bombay Hospital.