With simple precautions, one can avoid getting a heatstroke. Shibaji Roychoudhury speaks to doctors to tell you how to stay fit this summer
The summer is here and so are the problems associated with it. Diarrhoea, heat exhaustion, dehydration, skin infections, heatstroke and heat cramps become common place. Ignoring these can land one in the hospital but by taking some precautions one can prevent these.
“The most important thing is to be aware of the symptoms associated with each problem. For example, symptoms of dehydration include thirst, light-headedness, dry skin, fatigue, less-frequent urination, dizziness, muscle cramping and dry mouth. Heath strokes can be fatal. Ideally, if a person has heat stroke, he should stay indoors, remove clothes and apply ice packs to his groin and armpits. He also needs to ensure that there is proper ventilation to help his body sweat. But most importantly, he should visit a doctor,” Dr GS Rao, MD, Yashoda Hospitals says.
Skincare is also extremely essential in summers. It is necessary to use sunscreen every time one goes out in the sun. “Suncreen with high SPF is advised. Those who regularly swim need to apply water-proof sunscreen on their hands, face, neck, behind their ears, chest and back,” Dr Chiranjiv Chabbra, dermatologist at Skin Alive, New Delhi tells you. Doctors also advise that one should wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts and T-shirts and wear UV ray protected sunglasses. “In addition to protecting the skin, it is also important to protect the hair. Although, it’s not recommended to shampoo everyday, yet, one should wash it regularly with tepid water. People can also rinse their hair with lemon juice and vinegar,” Dr Chabbra advises.
One of the best ways to beat the heat is to eat a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of vegetables and fruits. Water melon, cucumber, onions and other water-based vegetables are a must. Onions help prevent loo. Water-based fruits and vegetables not only have lot of nutrients needed, they keep the the skin well moisturised. “People in summers should eat small and frequent meals. Eating a heavy breakfast prevents low blood pressure and giddiness. Greasy fatty foods must be avoided as it takes longer to digest and can cause stomach upset and ulcers,” Shikha Sharma, Delhi-based nutritionist opines.