Find out what happens to your body in an intense heatwave

Your body under pressure

Dr L. Sudarshan Reddy, Sr. Consultant Physician at Yashoda Hospitals Hyderabad, explains intense heat throws your internal thermostat into overdrive. Here’s how your body copes:

Heat Exhaustion: Sweating is your body’s way to cool down. But excessive sweating can lead to a loss of fluids and electrolytes, causing weakness, dizziness, nausea, and fainting.

Heat Stroke: This life-threatening condition occurs when your body can’t regulate its temperature. Symptoms include hot, dry skin (sweating stops!), confusion, seizures, and even death if not treated promptly.

Dehydration: Sweating depletes your body’s fluids. Without enough fluids, you can become dehydrated, leading to dry mouth, extreme thirst, and decreased urination.

By following these tips and understanding how your body reacts to heat, you can stay healthy and safe during a heatwave. (PTI Photo)

Electrolyte Imbalance: Sweating doesn’t just remove fluids, it also zaps essential electrolytes like sodium and potassium. This imbalance can cause muscle cramps, fatigue, and even heart problems.

Heat Cramps: Painful muscle cramps, especially in the legs and abdomen, are caused by electrolyte and fluid loss.

Hyperthermia: When your body’s core temperature rises rapidly because it can’t keep up with the heat, you have hyperthermia. This can strain your heart and other organs.

Chronic Conditions Flare Up: Heatwaves can worsen existing health problems like heart disease, respiratory issues, and diabetes.

Heat Rash: This itchy, uncomfortable rash occurs when sweat ducts become blocked.

Is there mental pushback?

According to Dr Rakesh Gupta, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating, which can lead to increased stress and anxiety levels.

“Some individuals may experience mood changes, such as depression or aggression, due to the physical strain and discomfort caused by the heat,” he said.

To manage these reactions, it’s essential to prioritise self-care by staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and practicing stress-reducing activities like meditation or deep breathing exercises. Seeking social support and discussing feelings with loved ones can also be helpful. If psychological or emotional distress becomes severe, seeking professional help from a mental health provider is recommended.

Be aware of heat-related illness symptoms and take immediate action if you experience any discomfort. By following these tips and understanding how your body reacts to heat, you can stay healthy and safe during a heatwave.