Special heatstroke treatment wards opened in Salem and Erode govt hospitals

SALEM: Special heatstroke treatment wards have been opened in Salem Government Mohan Kumaramangalam Medical College and Hospital and Erode Government Medical College and Hospital as temperature crossed 38 degrees Celsius in the region. "Both the hospitals have set up dedicated five-bed heatstroke treatment wards to handle emergencies. These wards are staffed round the clock by doctors and nurses," said a govt doctor. He urged people stepping out in the heat to drink plenty of water and fruit juices to stay hydrated.Health officials have advised the public to avoid unnecessary travel between 10am and 3 pm, as the heat wave is expected to worsen in the coming days. They said prolonged exposure to the sun could cause skin blisters, muscle cramps, dizziness, fainting and heatstroke. They cautioned that severe heat exposure might lead to stroke, unconsciousness, organ failure and even life-threatening coma if not treated in time.They advised anyone experiencing dizziness, fainting and signs heatstroke to seek immediate treatment at the nearest govt hospital.Dr Nanda Prasad, general medical specialist at Erode Government General Hospital, said timely medical attention was crucial to prevent serious complications from extreme heat.