Shah Rukh Khan ‘doing well’ after suffering a heatstroke, discharged since: Here’s how to avoid one if you work outdoors

While an official statement from the hospital is still pending, a police official expects Khan to be discharged today, May 23rd. The actor was in Ahmedabad on Tuesday to attend an Indian Premier League (IPL) match of his Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) team at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

“Khan is still undergoing treatment at the hospital. It is possible that he may get discharged today,” Ahmedabad (Rural) Superintendent of Police Om Prakash Jat said, PTI reported.

To all of Mr Khan’s fans and well wishers – he is doing well. Thank you for your love, prayers and concern 🙏

— Pooja Dadlani (@pooja_dadlani) May 23, 2024

Khan’s hospitalisation coincides with a severe heatwave gripping parts of India, with temperatures exceeding 45°C. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued heat advisories, including a red alert for Sunday and an orange alert for May 20th to 22nd, indicating the heatwave is likely to persist for the coming week.

According to Dr Anantha Padmanabha, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Nagarbhavi, Bengaluru, if you’re someone who persistently remains outdoors like Khan, there are several things you can do to safeguard yourself from a heatstroke.

1. Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
2. Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol, which dehydrate you.
3. Dress light and loose in breathable fabrics.
4. Limit strenuous activity during peak sun hours (usually 10 am to 4 pm).
5. Take breaks in air-conditioned spaces or shaded areas.
6. Wear a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
7. Applying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is also crucial.

By following these tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of heatstroke and enjoy the outdoors safely, even during hot weather. (Representational image/File)

Dr Rakesh Gupta , Senior Consultant , Internal Medicine , Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, agreed, adding that you must pay attention to signs of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness, nausea, or excessive sweating, and take breaks or seek shade when needed.

Dr Padmanabha also advised wearing cooling vests or bandanas, if working in extreme heat. “Monitor urine color – dark yellow indicates dehydration. Watch for early heatstroke symptoms like dizziness, headache, and nausea,” he added in an interaction with indianexpress.com

If someone experiences a heatstroke

Here are some things you must do immediately:

Call for Help: Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Call emergency services immediately.

Move to Cool Area: Move the person to a cool, shaded area and loosen or remove excess clothing.

Cool Them Down: Help the person cool down by applying wet cloths or ice packs to their armpits, groin, neck, and forehead. You can also use fans or a cold shower (if they’re conscious) to lower their body temperature.

Hydration: If they’re conscious and able to swallow, offer cool water or an electrolyte drink. Avoid giving them alcohol or caffeine, which can worsen dehydration.

Monitor Vital Signs: Monitor their breathing and pulse while waiting for medical help.

By following these tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of heatstroke and enjoy the outdoors safely, even during hot weather.