Experts urge hydration, awareness to prevent heat-related illnesses

Image used to represent | Photo credit: C. VENKATACHALAPATHY

People should not wait until they feel thirsty to drink water during extreme summer conditions as symptoms like dizziness, muscle cramps, fainting, confusion and excessive sweating could signal the onset of serious heat-related illnesses, experts said in a webinar organized by The Hindu on Saturday (May 23, 2026).

In a webinar titled ‘Heat and Health: What you need to know’, Jaichitra Suresh, Senior Consultant Physician and Diabetologist, Soukya Clinic and Home Health Care, and Karthik Gunasekaran, Professor, Department of General Medicine, Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore, discussed heat-related illnesses, warning signs that require medical attention in rising temperatures and the wider picture.

Speaking of heat-related illnesses, Dr. Suresh said prolonged exposure to high temperatures can affect the body’s natural thermoregulatory mechanisms and lead to a range of health conditions, from mild heat rash and cramps to severe heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

She described heat-related illnesses as threats to both the environment and the profession, which are becoming more common due to global warming and rising summer temperatures. She also urged people to stay hydrated, avoid direct exposure during peak afternoon hours, wear loose and light-colored clothing and limit strenuous outdoor activities during heat conditions.

Dr. Gunasekaran said the frequency and intensity of heat waves has increased worldwide in recent decades and is associated with increased hospitalizations, emergency room visits, cardiovascular complications, kidney injuries and deaths.

He explained how prolonged exposure to extreme heat affects the body’s ability to regulate temperature, which can ultimately lead to dehydration, exhaustion, organ dysfunction and heatstroke.

Dr. Gunasekaran discussed emergency measures for severe heat illness and emphasized that rapid cooling and early medical intervention are essential to prevent death and long-term complications. He urged people to recognize the early signs of heat stress and seek medical help immediately.

The session was moderated by Geetha Srimathi, Chief Reporter of The Hindu.

Published – 23 May 2026 16:02 IST