Authorities at the federal and provincial levels have taken action to combat the intense heatwave that is predicted to hit Punjab and Sindh starting today. These preparations are intended to shield citizens from potentially fatal outcomes including heat-related ailments.
The population is likely to be affected by the likelihood of a rise in heat-related disorders such heat stroke, which is thought to be the most severe type with fatality rates ranging from 10% to 80%.
A body temperature that rises above 40.6 degrees Celsius as a result of exposure to heat in the environment is known as heat stroke, the most serious type of heat-related sickness.
According to studies, heat stroke can be prevented with basic preventive measures, but if treatment is delayed, the death rate from the condition can reach 80%.
10% may be the death rate if cooling measures and early diagnosis are taken.
A heatwave advisory has been issued for the general public by the National Disaster Management Authority and other provincial authorities, requesting that people take the appropriate action right away.
According to the caution, heat stroke is particularly dangerous for young children, the elderly, athletes, and anyone who work outside.
Symptoms of heat stroke
Heat stroke symptoms typically include hot, red, or flushed, dry skin that is excessively sweaty, along with chills, weakness, lethargy, a throbbing headache, a high body temperature, hallucinations, confusion, dizziness, and slurred speech.
Anyone experiencing any of the symptoms should get help as soon as possible from the closest medical facility.
How to prevent heat stroke?
The following are some typical precautions that the advisory has recommended in order to avoid heat/sun stroke:
Steer clear of the outdoors during the warmest part of the day.
Try to stay away from physically demanding activities. If you have to engage in vigorous activity, try to do it in the morning, between 4 and 7 am, when it’s the coolest of the day.
Remain in the shadows.
Children and animals should never be left in parked cars.
Stay hydrated by consuming lots of water.
Reduce the amount of time you spend in the sun during the hotter months or in locations with high ambient temperatures.
Avoid engaging in strenuous physical activity when the weather is hot and muggy.
Those who labor in the sun should take breaks from the sun and drink lots of fluids to avoid dehydration and heat stroke.
Tea and/or soft drinks with added sugar and caffeine should not be consumed by patients as this can worsen dehydration.
Eat salty meals and carry an umbrella.
When the weather is hot and humid, wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and caps.
During a heatwave, keep the body hydrated and cool by taking cool baths or showers.
To stay cool, use towels, sponging, cold packs and wraps, and foot baths.
In the event of a heat wave, it is advisable to go quickly to a cool location and take your body temperature if you experience any of the following symptoms: headache, extreme thirst, dizziness, weakness, or anxiety. To rehydrate, sip on some fruit juice or water.
If you have excruciating muscle spasms, especially in your arms, legs, or abdomen, take quick solace in a cool location and consume oral rehydration solutions (ORS) that contain electrolytes.
If heat cramps continue for longer than an hour, medical attention is required.
Heat stroke victims need to be managed and treated right away.
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