Heatwave Health Alert: How to Stay Safe in Extreme Heat

Doctors warn of rising heatstroke cases as temperatures soar and humidity climbs

Kolkata, May 19:

The heat is no longer just uncomfortable.

It is becoming dangerous.

As temperatures continue to climb across India, hospitals are reporting a steady rise in patients suffering from heat-related illnesses, including dehydration, exhaustion, and heatstroke. In coastal regions like Haldia, the combination of high temperature and humidity is making the situation even more severe.

Doctors say the warning signs are clear.

And they are becoming more frequent.

“People often ignore early symptoms,” said a physician at a government hospital in Kolkata. “By the time they come in, the condition has already worsened.”

Heat-related illnesses typically begin with mild symptoms—fatigue, dizziness, excessive sweating—but can quickly escalate if not addressed.

What Happens During a Heatwave

When the body is exposed to high temperatures for prolonged periods, it struggles to regulate its internal temperature. Sweating helps cool the body, but in humid conditions, sweat does not evaporate easily.

That is when trouble begins.

The body overheats.

Electrolytes drop.

Dehydration sets in.

If not treated in time, this can lead to heatstroke, a life-threatening condition.

Common Symptoms to Watch Out For

• Persistent headache

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Excessive sweating or, in severe cases, no sweating

• Rapid heartbeat

• Nausea or vomiting

• Muscle cramps

• Confusion or fainting

Doctors say even one or two of these symptoms should not be ignored.

Who Is Most at Risk

Not everyone reacts to heat in the same way.

Certain groups are more vulnerable:

• Elderly individuals

• Children

• Outdoor workers (construction, transport, delivery)

• People with existing health conditions

• Individuals who do not drink enough fluids

In industrial areas like Haldia, where many workers spend hours outdoors or in high-temperature environments, the risk is even higher.

How to Stay Safe in Extreme Heat

The advice from doctors is simple—but essential:

Stay Hydrated
Drink water regularly, even if you are not thirsty. Avoid alcohol and limit caffeine.

Avoid Peak Sun Hours
Try not to step out between 11 AM and 4 PM, when temperatures are highest.

Wear Light Clothing
Loose, light-colored cotton clothes help your body stay cool.

Use Protection
Umbrellas, caps, sunglasses, and scarves can reduce direct sun exposure.

Take Breaks
If you work outdoors, rest frequently in shaded or cool areas.

What To Do in Case of Heatstroke

If someone shows signs of severe heatstroke:

• Move them to a cooler place immediately

• Give water if they are conscious

• Apply a wet cloth or pour cool water on the body

• Seek medical help without delay

Time matters in such cases.

Why This Heat Feels Worse in West Bengal

Unlike dry heat in northern India, West Bengal experiences humid heat, especially in coastal regions.

Humidity slows down the body’s cooling system.

This makes even moderate temperatures feel extreme.

In cities like Kolkata and industrial belts like Haldia, concrete structures and limited airflow make conditions worse—especially at night, when the body needs recovery.

Looking Ahead

The current heatwave is expected to continue for several days, with only gradual relief in some areas. Health officials are urging people to take warnings seriously and avoid unnecessary exposure.

Because heatwaves are not always dramatic.

They don’t arrive with noise.

They build slowly—day by day—until the body begins to struggle.

And by then, prevention becomes more difficult than protection.

For now, the message is clear:

Stay cool.

Stay hydrated.

Stay alert.