Srinagar, Jun 30: With temperatures rising sharply across Jammu and Kashmir, health experts have urged people to remain cautious and adopt preventive measures to protect themselves from heat-related illnesses, warning that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to serious health complications.
Health officials have advised residents to stay well hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during peak daytime hours, wear light clothing, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke develop.
Dr Mushtaq from the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK) said the prevailing heatwave demands extra vigilance, particularly among children, elderly persons, outdoor workers, and individuals suffering from chronic illnesses.
The public should increase their intake of fluids such as plain water, Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), buttermilk (lassi), lemon water, fresh homemade juices and other natural drinks to prevent dehydration. During hot weather, the body’s requirement for fluids increases significantly, and people should not wait until they feel thirsty before drinking water,” Dr Mushtaq said.
He advised people to avoid carbonated soft drinks, packaged sugary beverages, and excessive consumption of tea and coffee, as these can contribute to dehydration rather than replenish lost fluids.
Dr Mushtaq urged people to avoid stepping outdoors during the hottest part of the day unless absolutely necessary. “If you have to go outside, wear light-coloured, loose-fitting cotton clothes, cover your head with a cap or scarf, carry an umbrella whenever possible, and use sunscreen to protect against harmful ultraviolet rays,” he said.
He said individuals sleeping under ceiling fans or spending long hours in hot environments should increase their fluid intake because excessive sweating and evaporation result in significant water loss from the body.
The DHSK Director further advised people to maintain proper food hygiene during the summer season, as cases of foodborne and diarrhoeal illnesses tend to rise during periods of intense heat.
“People should avoid consuming stale or uncovered food, particularly from roadside outlets. Fruits and vegetables must be washed thoroughly before consumption, and special care should be taken while preparing food for children and elderly family members,” he said.
Dr Mushtaq also highlighted the warning signs of heat-related illnesses and urged people not to ignore symptoms such as excessive tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, mental disorientation or fainting.
“If anyone develops these symptoms, they should immediately move to a cool place, drink fluids if conscious, and seek medical attention without delay. Early intervention can prevent serious complications,” he added.
Dr Murtaza Khan, the general physician at DHSK, said increasing temperatures, coupled with the growing impact of climate change, are making heat-related illnesses more common.
“Heatstroke occurs when the body’s cooling system fails, and body temperature rises to dangerous levels. If not treated promptly, it can become life-threatening. Early recognition of symptoms such as fatigue, vomiting, dizziness, confusion or altered consciousness is essential, and patients should be taken to the nearest health facility immediately,” he said.
Doctors appealed to people to minimise strenuous physical activity during peak heat hours, ensure adequate hydration throughout the day, regularly monitor vulnerable family members, particularly children and senior citizens, and remain alert to the signs of dehydration and heatstroke as the region continues to experience unusually high temperatures
