Stress on limiting outdoor activities to reduce exposure
Irfan Tramboo
SRINAGAR, June 25: As the scorching heatwave continues to grip Kashmir, experts today highlighted the crucial need to stay hydrated and take precautionary measures to avoid heat strokes, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children.
Dr. Shariq Masoodi, Professor of Endocrinology at SKIMS Soura, emphasized the significance of adopting necessary precautions to combat the heatwave. He addressed various aspects, including physical activity, caring for vulnerable individuals, and preventing heat-related incidents.
He talked about the importance of taking regular breaks from strenuous activities during hot weather, noting that if exercising is unavoidable, it would be better to do it during the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.
Dr. Shariq also recognized the heightened vulnerability of the elderly to heat-related ailments, while urging community members to regularly check on them.
Explaining the risks associated with heatstroke, he highlighted that the condition occurs when the body overheats due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures or physical exertion in hot conditions, causing the body’s temperature regulation mechanisms to fail.
Regarding children, Dr. Shariq underscored the need to ensure they stay hydrated by providing ample water, dressing them in lightweight clothing, creating shaded areas for outdoor activities, engaging in indoor activities to avoid excessive heat exposure, and using misting sprays or wet towels to cool their bodies.
Dr. Suhail Naik, Consultant Pediatrician at Children’s Hospital, Bemina, highlighted the potentially fatal consequences of the scorching heat for children if proper measures are not taken.
He warned that rising temperatures can lead to exhaustion, dehydration, and heat strokes among children. “Therefore, it is crucial to take all necessary steps to regulate their body temperature and, most importantly, keep them properly hydrated.”
Dr. Masood Rashid, an anesthesia specialist and critical care expert working in the Health Department, advised the public to avoid venturing outside during the peak hours of heat, specifically between 12:00 noon and 3:00 p.m., when the sun’s rays are most intense.
“By limiting outdoor activities during these hours, people can significantly reduce their exposure to excessive heat and potential heat injuries,” he said.
He also emphasized the importance of staying hydrated to combat the effects of heat while advising to drink sufficient water, even when not feeling thirsty. “Because it aids in regulating body temperature and reduces the risk of dehydration.”
Furthermore, Dr. Masood advised the public to opt for appropriate clothing choices to stay cool and comfortable, recommending wearing lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting, and breathable cotton garments, which help mitigate the impact of high temperatures by allowing better air circulation and minimizing heat absorption.
He also emphasized the importance of maintaining personal hygiene to avoid fungal infections, strongly advising taking regular showers, changing clothes daily, especially undergarments, and ensuring the body remains dry in areas such as the groin, axilla, and inframammary region.
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