. “Heatwave Safety Tips: Avoid Peak Sun Hours and Drink More Water”: SRINAGAR: As temperatures continue to rise across Jammu and Kashmir, health professionals have issued advisories urging the public to remain alert and adopt essential precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.
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Dr Mohammad Salim Khan, Head of the Department of Community Medicine at GMC Srinagar, stressed the importance of proper hydration and dietary measures during the ongoing heatwave.
“Recent temperature spikes are significant. To stay safe, people should increase their fluid intake—especially water, oral rehydration solutions (ORS), lassi, lemonades, and homemade fresh juices,” he advised.
Dr Khan cautioned against consuming aerated drinks, packaged fruit juices, and excessive tea or coffee, stating that these can lead to dehydration.
He recommended avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours unless necessary. “Fluid intake should be increased by 1 to 3 litres depending on activity levels. Traditional hydrating options such as buttermilk (chaach) and light soups were advised to help replace lost minerals,” he said.
“Tea, coffee, and carbonated drinks increase urination, leading to further dehydration, while sugary beverages add unnecessary calories,” he said. “People should wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing, use scarves, caps, or umbrellas when outdoors, and apply sunscreen to protect against UV exposure.”
He further advised drinking additional fluids before sleeping under fans to offset evaporation losses. “Avoid stale food, especially from roadside vendors, as diarrheal diseases increase during summer. Wash raw fruits and vegetables thoroughly,” he added, noting that special care should be taken for children and the elderly.
Those experiencing symptoms such as exhaustion, weakness, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, confusion, or disorientation should seek immediate medical attention.
Dr Murtaza Khan, a general physician based in Pulwama, stressed recognising early signs of heat-related illness. “Symptoms like fatigue, nausea, dizziness, or confusion require prompt medical help,” he said.
He added that climate change has contributed to rising temperatures, increasing the risks linked with extreme heat events. “Heatstroke occurs when the body’s cooling mechanisms fail, leading to dangerously high body temperatures,” Dr Khan said.
Both doctors advised limiting strenuous physical activity during peak hours, particularly for vulnerable groups. They urged the public to take heat warnings seriously and follow preventive measures to stay safe during the current heatwave. (KNO)