As heatwave conditions intensify across India, medical professionals are raising concerns about the adverse effects of prolonged exposure to high temperatures, which can impact both physical health and neurological functions. Doctors are reporting a rise in patients suffering from heat-related ailments, particularly children, senior citizens, and individuals with existing medical conditions, highlighting the importance of taking precautions during the summer months.
Health experts emphasize that high temperatures, همراه dehydration, and extended sunlight exposure can disrupt the body’s equilibrium, leading to fatigue, dizziness, severe headaches, migraines, heat exhaustion, and neurological complications in vulnerable populations. As per information available with TahirRihat.com, hospitals in Delhi-NCR are experiencing an increase in patients reporting eye irritation, dehydration-induced headaches, and neurological symptoms triggered by the heat.
Dr. Vinit Suri, a Senior Consultant in Neurology at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in Delhi, noted a significant increase in neurological complaints among outpatients. (Dr. Suri said, “The ongoing heatwave is beginning to show an impact beyond routine heatrelated illnesses, with a noticeable increase in neurological complaints in our OPD.”) He added that they have observed a nearly 20% increase in outpatient visits over the past few days, with more individuals presenting symptoms like severe headaches, dizziness, disorientation, fainting episodes, worsening of existing neurological conditions, and migraine flare-ups.
According to Dr. Suri, heat exposure and prolonged exposure to bright sunlight can trigger migraines in certain individuals. He explained that extreme heat and dehydration can compromise blood flow to the brain, disrupt electrolyte balance, and place significant stress on the nervous system, especially in vulnerable people. Health officials urge people not to ignore symptoms such as persistent confusion, slurred speech, unusual drowsiness, seizures, or loss of consciousness, as these may indicate a serious neurological emergency requiring immediate medical attention.
Dr. Sushma Sharma, Director of Neurology at Marengo Asia Hospitals, stated that individuals with migraine, epilepsy, and other neurological disorders may experience worsening symptoms during periods of extreme heat and poor sleep caused by hot nights and power cuts. (Dr. Sharma said, “During extreme summer heat, it is important to avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours whenever possible.”) She advises that if going outdoors is necessary, people should protect themselves with umbrellas, sunglasses, and head coverings. Staying hydrated is equally crucial, as dehydration from excessive sweating can also lead to confusion and neurological complications.
Dr. Sharma recommends consuming natural electrolyte-rich drinks like coconut water, buttermilk, and fresh fruit juices to compensate for fluid loss caused by excessive sweating. Doctors also caution that eye health is often neglected during the summer, even though the season significantly increases the risk of irritation and infections. Dr. Neeraj Sanduja, Director at Viaan Eye and Retina Centre, stated that excessive exposure to sunlight, hot winds, dust, and dehydration commonly lead to eye strain and discomfort.
(Dr. Sanduja said that summer heat can affect eye health in several ways, and that prolonged exposure to strong sunlight, hot winds, dust, and dehydration can lead to dryness, irritation, redness, and eye strain.) He added that many people also experience burning sensations, itching, or watery eyes during this season. He also mentioned cases of dry eye syndrome, allergic conjunctivitis, and corneal sunburns, emphasizing that children and those spending long hours outdoors should be extra careful.
Dr. Namrata Sharma, a professor at the Dr. R P Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences in Delhi, noted that continuous use of air-conditioners and increased screen time indoors are contributing to eye-related complaints during the summer. (Dr. Sharma said that dry indoor air from air-conditioners, combined with prolonged mobile and laptop use, reduces natural tear production and worsens eye dryness.) She added that people often ignore early symptoms like redness, blurry vision, and irritation, which can gradually become more serious if left untreated.
(Dr. Sharma reported that more cases of allergies, dry eye, and infections are happening because of faster evaporation of the tear film.) She advises people to wear UV-protected goggles outdoors, wash their eyes with clean water after exposure to dust, avoid rubbing their eyes with unclean hands, use lubricating drops, and maintain adequate hydration throughout the day. As heatwave conditions persist, healthcare professionals urge the public to take necessary precautions to safeguard their neurological and eye health.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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