This summer India witnessed record high temperatures and deadly heatwaves and the situation is expected to get worse due to climate change. Here are some ways heat waves or high temperatures affect our bodies:
On very hot days, people may experience dehydration, heat exhaustion and, in the worst cases, heatstroke. Heat exhaustion is not typically serious if a person can cool down within 30 minutes, however, if it turns into a heat stroke it should be treated as an emergency
Heatwaves can exacerbate underlying illnesses including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, mental health, and asthma. Additionally, hot days are also linked to a higher risk of kidney problems, skin infections and pre-term birth among pregnant women.
Recent studies have shown that hot days may negatively affect mental health. According to a study conducted in New York, days of high temperatures were associated with a higher risk of hospital visits due to substance abuse, mood and anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and dementia.
Heatwaves are also associated with hazardous air pollution levels. Studies suggest air pollution can also cause long-term damage to people’s nerves, brain, kidneys, liver, and other organs.