Heatwave Alert: 7 Warning Signs That Need Immediate Hospital Visit & 7 Life-Saving Tips to Stay Safe

Heatwaves can be very dangerous, especially during extreme summers. During a heatwave, your body can struggle to regulate temperature, leading to serious health problems, even death in extreme cases.

Let’s break this down into two parts:

Be Careful in a Heatwave! If You See These 7 Symptoms, Rush to the Hospital Immediately:

These are signs of heatstroke or severe heat exhaustion, which require immediate medical attention.

1. High Body Temperature (Above 103°F / 39.4°C)

• The most serious sign of heatstroke.
• Body is overheating and unable to cool itself down.

2. Hot, Red, Dry or Damp Skin

• Skin feels very hot to touch.
• Sweating may stop, which is a sign that the body has lost its ability to cool down.

3. Confusion or Slurred Speech

• The brain is affected due to overheating.
• You may feel disoriented, dizzy, or have difficulty speaking.

4. Seizures or Convulsions

• Heatstroke can affect the nervous system.
• Seizures are a medical emergency.

5. Fainting or Loss of Consciousness

• A clear sign the body is shutting down from the heat.
• Must be rushed to hospital.

6. Nausea or Vomiting

• A sign of heat exhaustion turning severe.
• Body’s digestive system is affected.

7. Rapid Pulse or Breathing

• Heart and lungs working harder due to overheating.
• If pulse feels weak or rapid, it’s an emergency.

If you or someone else has these symptoms, call emergency services and try to cool them down while waiting.

7 Things to Keep in Mind to Avoid a Heatwave Emergency:

1. Stay Hydrated

• Drink water every 30–60 minutes.
• Avoid sugary, alcoholic, or caffeinated drinks.

2. Wear Light, Loose, and Light-Colored Clothes

• Dark clothes absorb heat.
• Loose and cotton clothes help the body stay cool.

3. Avoid Going Out During Peak Heat Hours (12–4 PM)

• Try to stay indoors or in shaded areas during this time.

4. Use Fans, Coolers, or ACs

• If not available, take frequent cool showers or wipe with wet cloth.

5. Never Leave Children, Elderly, or Pets in Parked Vehicles

• Even for a few minutes, parked vehicles can turn into ovens.

6. Eat Light and Easy-to-Digest Food

• Heavy meals produce more body heat.
• Prefer fruits (like watermelon, cucumber), curd, buttermilk, salads.

7. Stay Informed

• Follow weather updates and heatwave alerts.
• Adjust your routine accordingly.