ISLAMABAD, (APP): Health experts have urged the
citizens to take enough precautionary measures to avoid heat stroke
during the heat wave conditions which are likely to persist till the
mid of June as per weather predictions.
According to the weather forecast, heat wave conditions
started from mid of May with occasional gaps would continue till mid
of June across the country with unusual increase in day
temperatures.
Talking to APP, health expert from Pakistan Institute
of Medical Sciences (PIMS) Dr. Wasim Khawaja advised the people to
increase water intake and use cap, umbrella and sun glasses to avoid
direct contact with sunlight.
He said children and old age people are more prone to suffer
from heat stroke as they have low resistance power to fight the
diseases.
He added, they must avoid going outside during the peak time
and if someone faints due to heat, he must be taken inside the air
conditioned or airy room and given water to drink.
He also suggested that the people should take more water,
fresh juices and fruits to increase the resistance power in their
bodies.
Another health expert, Dr. Sharif Astori from Polyclinic
Hospital said the labourers are one of the most vulnerable groups
among all during the heat wave condition as they stay and work out-
door most of the times.
He emphasized that steps should be taken by the authorities
for the health safety of labourers like during the hot weather
conditions.
He was of the view that the assembly in the schools and
colleges, usually held in open air, should also be avoided during
the hot weather.
While those who walk and exercise regularly must avoid such
practices during the hot weather, he said.
He said sweating due to heat causes fluids and mineral
imbalance in the human body and results in low blood pressure, low
sugar level, shivering, headache and nausea.
What one can do in emergency is to give a glass of water mixed
with sugar and salt to the patient of heat stroke, put wet shawl or
piece of cloth on him and keep him in shadow or indoor.