​IMD issues red alert for Delhi, Rajasthan, other states: What it means and how it can affect health​

A heatwave red alert is the highest level of warning issued by meteorological agencies to signify extreme heat conditions that pose a serious risk to public health and safety. This alert is typically triggered when temperatures are forecasted to exceed a certain threshold for an extended period, often in combination with high humidity levels. The criteria for a red alert can vary by region, depending on the local climate and the population's typical heat tolerance.

The purpose of a heatwave red alert is to prompt immediate action from the public and authorities to mitigate the effects of extreme heat. It calls for heightened vigilance and the implementation of emergency measures to protect vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with preexisting health conditions. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alert for Delhi, Rajasthan and several other states. Temperature has nearly touched 50 degree Celsius in the national capital.

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Apart from dealing with scorching heat, a red alert can have a disastrous effect on human health. Heatwaves can have severe and wide-ranging impacts on human health, particularly during a red alert when conditions are at their most extreme.

Heat-related illnesses: Heat exhaustion is characterized by heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache, heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses excessive water and salt. Without intervention, it can progress to heatstroke. Another heat related illness, about which health experts are warning now is heatstroke. This is a life-threatening condition marked by a body temperature above 104°F (40°C). Symptoms include confusion, altered mental state, slurred speech, and even loss of consciousness. Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent organ damage or death.

Dehydration: High temperatures increase the risk of dehydration as the body loses fluids through sweating. Dehydration can lead to kidney problems, urinary tract infections, and in severe cases, kidney failure.

Respiratory issues: Heatwaves often exacerbate air pollution, increasing the concentration of ground-level ozone. This can aggravate respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), leading to increased hospital admissions and mortality rates.

Cardiovascular strain: The heart works harder to cool the body during extreme heat, which can strain the cardiovascular system. This is particularly dangerous for individuals with preexisting heart conditions, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Impact on mental health: Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can affect mental health, leading to increased irritability, anxiety, and depression. Heatwaves can also disrupt sleep, further contributing to mental and physical stress.

The elderly, infants, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses are particularly vulnerable during a heatwave. Their bodies are less efficient at regulating temperature, making them more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Heatwaves can exacerbate existing social inequalities. People without access to air conditioning or those who work outdoors, such as construction workers and agricultural laborers, are at a higher risk of heat-related health issues.

During a heatwave red alert, it is crucial to implement preventive measures to safeguard public health:

Drink plenty of fluids, avoiding alcohol and caffeinated beverages that can lead to dehydration.
Spend time in air-conditioned environments, and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
Ensure that elderly relatives, neighbors, and those with chronic illnesses are coping well with the heat.
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, take cool showers, and use fans or cooling towels.

Heat stress occurs when the body is unable to regulate its temperature due to external factors like high air temperature, humidity, or strenuous physical activity. It is a critical issue, particularly in hot work environments (like it is now in the northern part of India), where both indoor and outdoor workers are at risk. Several factors contribute to heat stress, including high ambient temperatures, radiant heat sources, high humidity, direct physical contact with hot objects, and strenuous physical activities. Other factors include age, weight, physical fitness, degree of acclimatization, hydration status, and certain medical conditions such as hypertension. Even the type of clothing worn can impact heat stress risk.

Heat stress manifests through various symptoms, ranging from mild to severe:

Red clusters of pimples or small blisters, commonly occur on the neck, upper chest, groin, under breasts, and in elbow creases. This is caused by excessive sweating.

Painful muscle cramps, usually in the abdomen, arms, or legs, due to loss of body salts and fluids during sweating.

Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, and moist skin. It's a serious condition that requires quick treatment to prevent escalation.

The most severe form of heat stress is marked by confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, and very high body temperature. This is a medical emergency and can be fatal if not treated immediately.

Use fans and air conditioning to reduce air temperature and humidity. Try to stay in shaded or air-conditioned areas for breaks. Adjust work schedules to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Drink cool water and encourage frequent drinking, even if not thirsty. Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing to minimize heat absorption (HSE).

Immediate action is important when dealing with heat stress. For mild cases like heat rash and heat cramps, moving to a cooler environment and hydrating can suffice. For more severe conditions like heat exhaustion and heat stroke, more intensive measures are needed.

Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in the heat. Drink plenty of water and consider sports drinks for replenishing electrolytes lost through sweat. Traditional drinks like coconut water or bel sharbat can also help maintain your salt levels. Add water-rich foods such as cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges into your diet for extra hydration and essential nutrients. Traditional drinks like Aam Panna, mint water, and buttermilk are great for staying cool and balanced. Try to avoid strenuous activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and if you need to be outside, take frequent breaks in the shade and use protective gear like hats, sunglasses, and cotton cloth wraps if you're on a two-wheeler. Wearing lightweight, breathable clothing can help keep you cool. While fans can circulate air, they might not suffice in extreme heat, so use air conditioners or cool showers to stay comfortable.