As temperatures continue to rise in many parts of India, doctors are warning people to take heat-related illnesses seriously. Extreme heat can affect the body quickly, especially when people spend too much time outdoors without enough water or protection from the sun. One of the biggest dangers during very hot weather is heat stroke, a condition that can become life-threatening if not treated on time.
According to Dr Ashutosh Tiwari, Senior Consultant (Critical Care), many people ignore the early signs of heat stroke because they think it is just tiredness or weakness caused by summer weather. However, doctors say early attention can prevent serious complications.
Heat stroke, often called “loo lagna” in common language, happens when the body becomes too hot and cannot cool itself properly. Normally, the body controls temperature through sweating. But in severe heat, this natural cooling system may stop working.
Dr Tiwari explained in a recent video that symptoms of heat-related illness are becoming more common during the summer season. He said people should understand the warning signs before the condition becomes dangerous.
One of the first symptoms is unusual tiredness or weakness. A person may suddenly feel exhausted even after doing normal activities. Many people also feel dizzy or faint after spending time in the sun.
Headaches are another common sign. Sometimes the headache becomes severe and is accompanied by nausea or vomiting. Some people may feel body pain or heaviness in the muscles.
Doctors say fever-like symptoms should also not be ignored during extreme summer weather. In many heat stroke cases, body temperature becomes very high and may rise above 40 degrees Celsius. When this happens, the body struggles to function normally.
Dr Tiwari explained that people may also experience a very fast heartbeat. The pulse may feel stronger or quicker than usual because the body is trying hard to manage rising temperature and dehydration.
Some people feel confused or mentally disturbed. They may find it difficult to focus or speak properly. In more serious situations, a person may become disoriented or unable to respond normally.
Heat stroke can affect anyone, but some people face higher risk. Older adults, children, outdoor workers and people with existing medical conditions are more vulnerable. People who work for long hours in sunlight or spend time outside without enough water are also at greater risk.
Doctors say dehydration makes the condition worse. When the body loses too much water through sweating and does not get enough fluids, temperature regulation becomes harder. This is why drinking water regularly during summer becomes extremely important.
Ignoring these early signs may allow the condition to worsen quickly. Heat stroke can progress from mild symptoms to a medical emergency within a short time.
Doctors say one important sign to watch during suspected heat stroke is sweating. Sweating is the body’s natural cooling process. If someone suddenly stops sweating despite extreme heat, it can be a warning sign that the body is failing to control temperature.
According to Dr Tiwari, this becomes especially serious when combined with confusion, weakness or fainting.
Another warning sign is reduced urination. If a person is urinating much less than usual, it may mean dehydration has become severe. This indicates the body is struggling to function properly.
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People should also pay close attention to consciousness levels. If someone becomes semi-conscious, confused, sleepy or unresponsive, immediate medical attention is necessary.
In severe cases, people may collapse or faint completely. Doctors warn that unconsciousness during extreme heat should never be ignored because it may signal dangerous heat stroke.
Dr Tiwari explained that vomiting, repeated dizziness and worsening body weakness are also signs that require urgent attention, especially if symptoms continue despite rest and cooling measures.
When heat stroke is suspected, first aid should begin immediately. The first step is moving the person to a cooler place. It is important to remove them from direct sunlight as soon as possible.
Doctors advise loosening or removing extra clothing to help body heat escape. Cooling methods such as cold cloths, cool water, fans or air conditioning may help bring body temperature down.
However, experts strongly warn against forcing water or food into the mouth of someone who is unconscious or semi-conscious. Doing this may block breathing or cause fluid to enter the lungs, which can become extremely dangerous.
If symptoms do not improve quickly after cooling efforts, medical care should not be delayed. A hospital visit becomes necessary if body temperature stays high, the person becomes confused, stops sweating or loses consciousness.
Doctors also say prevention matters just as much as treatment. Staying hydrated, avoiding direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours and wearing loose cotton clothing may help lower risk.
People are advised to avoid heavy physical work during very hot hours of the day. Taking regular breaks and staying in shaded or cool places whenever possible can also help.
Experts say heat stroke is serious but preventable. Knowing the warning signs and acting quickly can save lives. Even symptoms that seem small at first should not be ignored during periods of extreme heat because the condition may become dangerous faster than expected.
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