On Monday morning, parts of Delhi NCR experienced light rain and residents got some respite from the blistering heat. On the downside, humidity levels seem to have increased and temperatures continue to remain unchanged. The combination of heat and humidity can be troublesome and can expose you to several possible health risks. In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, two leading experts share insights on how to navigate hot and humid temperatures.
Also Read: Heat-Related Illnesses To Watch Out For; Precautions To Take
The Science Behind Humidity
In soaring temperatures, our bodies start to heat up, which is when we release sweat. This sweat is then evaporated from the skin, which in turn, helps to cool us off. However, Dr Shilpa Singi, Internal Medicine Physician, Apollo Clinic, Marathahalli, explained, “When the air has a high moisture content, as is the case in humid weather, this sweat cannot evaporate, leaving our bodies feeling hot and sticky. To cool off, our bodies must work even harder. This results in excessive sweating, increased rate and depth of blood circulation and increased respiration.”
“Excessive sweating can cause a loss of water and chemicals that the body needs in order to function properly, potentially putting our health in jeopardy,” she added.
How The Combination Of Heat And Humidity Impacts Health
“From heat exhaustion to strokes to the worst-case scenario, which is death, high temperatures can result in illnesses that are fatal and require immediate medical care,” said Dr Keni Ravish Rajiv, Consultant Neurologist-Epileptologist, Aster RV Hospital. According to the doctor, two of the possible health risks prompted by heat and humidity include heat stroke and heat exhaustion, which are both heat-related illnesses. However, they differ in their severity and symptoms.
“Heat stroke is the more severe of the two conditions and can be life-threatening. It occurs when the body's internal temperature rises to dangerous levels, typically above 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius), due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures or intense physical activity,” he added.
Symptoms of heat stroke
- Throbbing headache
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Rapid heartbeat
- Nausea
- Hot and dry skin
“It requires immediate medical attention as it can lead to organ damage or failure,” the doctor urged.
On the other hand, heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness. It usually develops after prolonged exposure to high temperatures and inadequate hydration, causing the body to lose essential fluids and electrolytes.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Muscle cramps
- Clammy skin
Although heat exhaustion is not as severe as heat stroke, it should still be taken seriously and treated promptly to prevent it from progressing to heat stroke.
Understanding The Risk Of Hyperthermia
Hyperthermia occurs in alarmingly hot and humid temperatures. It occurs due to high body temperature, wherein the body absorbs or generates more heat than it can release. Ideally, a normal body temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Any body temperature above 99 or 100 degrees Fahrenheit is too warm. Symptoms of hyperthermia include:
- Dehydration
- Dizziness and fainting
- Fast breathing
- Heart palpitations
- Blurred vision
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Low blood pressure
- Muscle aches or cramps
When it comes to heat-related illnesses, certain people may be more at risk than others. According to Dr Singi, construction workers, athletes, military personnel, firefighters, landscapers, farmers, maintenance workers, and utility workers are at a greater risk of developing heat illnesses.
Additional risk factors include:
- Dehydration
- Drugs
- Alcohol
- Diseases, such as diabetes, heart problems, and kidney issues
- Older adults
Also Read: What Are The Illnesses That Occur Due To Heatwave? Centre Issues Health Advisory
Preventive Measures
To prevent heat stroke and heat exhaustion, one can take several measures:
Clothing: Firstly, it is important to wear loose-fitting and lightweight clothing to allow the body to cool properly.
Protection: It's also important to apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, and wear a hat/cap, and sunglasses to protect from sunburn.
Hydration: Staying hydrated by consuming plenty of fluids is crucial to maintain body temperature. Dr Singi recommends drinking water every 15 minutes when working or exercising in a hot environment, even if you’re not thirsty. If you need to be out in extreme heat (heat index over 103°F), drink a total of two to four glasses (16 to 32 ounces) of water each hour.
Exertion: One should also avoid engaging in strenuous activities and limit time spent working or exercising in the heat.
External influencers: If a person takes any medications, it is important to consult a doctor beforehand as some medications can increase body temperature.
Medical attention: In case someone experiences heat stroke or heat exhaustion, they should seek immediate medical attention.
In addition, do not drink alcohol or beverages that contain caffeine, avoid going outdoors for activities or exercise when the temperature and humidity are high, wear sunscreen, avoid eating a hot, heavy meal, and ensure that you have electrolytes and not just water, advised Dr Singi.
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Treatment Options
The treatment for these conditions typically involves lowering one’s body temperature, said Dr Rajiv. This may include:
- Immersing in ice or water bath
- Using evaporation techniques
- Covering the body with ice packs or cooling blankets
It is important to remember to take breaks and stay cool. Seeking shade or using fans, air conditioning when necessary can help prevent these heat-related illnesses, the doctor concluded.