“If you are over 50 and have diseases like high blood pressure and diabetes, dehydration and extreme heat can adversely affect you,” says Dr. M. Wali told The Indian Express.

What exactly happens in the body during heat stroke?

Exposure to high temperatures and profuse sweating lead to a large loss of body water and an increase in body temperature. “The sympathetic nervous system of the body is activated. This means the body senses a crisis situation and the body starts releasing stress hormones. Low water also reduces blood volume and thickens, putting more strain on the heart and blood vessels to pump more blood; This can cause heat to spread quickly through the skin. After heatstroke, the body cannot regulate its temperature. Sweating and evaporation become difficult and the body temperature cannot be normalized. When heatstroke occurs, the body’s temperature can rise to 104°F (F) or more within 10 to 15 minutes. Therefore, the body temperature has to be reduced by keeping the patient in a cold environment with saline. Ice packs are placed on the neck, under the arms and in the groin area; which can keep the body temperature stable,” says Dr. Wali said.

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What are the symptoms of dehydration? Why don’t you feel it as you get older?

Dr. According to Wali, “Pay attention to how often you urinate. Dehydration can cause decreased urination. “The color of urine may also be dark yellow. You may experience dry mouth, feeling unwell, headache, fever, shortness of breath, increased heart rate and low blood pressure. When we are young, the body shows signs of needing water. But as we age, the body doesn’t show signs of needing water. So even though your body needs fluids to function, you won’t feel thirsty enough. So not drinking enough water puts you at risk of dehydration.”

How can we prevent dehydration? How much water should you drink?

People should drink at least four to six liters of water during hot days to avoid dehydration. “Continue to drink water, fruit juice or bael juice (good heat resister) after hours. Even if you don’t feel thirsty, you need to drink a drink with electrolytes; So that you can replenish the body salts lost through sweat. Always carry a water bottle with you as you cannot avoid getting stuck in traffic. Remember that cold beer dehydrates and alters the nervous system. Limit smoking and drinking,” said Dr. Vali says.

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What should you do when out in the sun?

“It is best to stay indoors during the hottest part of the afternoon. But, if one wants to go out, protect oneself from direct sun. Wear light, loose, cotton clothing. Carry a reflective white umbrella. Turn off your car’s AC 10 minutes before reaching your destination. Keep the windows open when parking. As the car heats up in the sun, let it cool down for some time before sitting in the car again. For that, keep the doors or windows open for some time,” said Dr. Vali suggests.