The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a serious heat alert for Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Chandigarh, warning that excessive temperatures may remain in the coming days.

According to the All India Weather Bulletin for April 9, these areas are expected to experience “serious heat -like conditions” that can seriously affect health and well -being.

What is heatwave?

A heatwave is usually defined as a long period of extremely hot weather, which can occur with high humidity.

In India, IMD classifies a heatwave when the maximum temperature crosses 40 ° C in the grounds and is at least 4.5 ° C above normal temperature.

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that Heatwaves are one of the most deadly natural threats, often leading to spikes in hospitalization and occurring deaths.

Weak groups with children, the elderly and chronic diseases are at the greatest at risk.

How the body controls heat

The human body depends on an internal thermostat, which is mainly controlled by the hypothalamus, to maintain a stable temperature around 37 ° C. But this balance is challenged in hot and humid weather.

Usually, the body cools itself through sweat. When the sweat evaporates, it removes heat from the body. However, in high humidity, sweat does not evaporate efficiently, making it difficult to cool.

NASA’s 1985 report states that while the body can function within a temperature range of 4 ° C, while from 35 ° C, the high temperature is only tolerant when the humidity is low.

If the body cannot effectively dissolve heat, it stores excess heat, resulting in a condition called hyperthermia. It begins with heat tiredness, where symptoms include dizziness, nausea, weakness and excessive thirst.

A 2023 study by Rohmpton University in the UK found that at 40 ° C with just 25% humidity, the metabolic rate rose by 35%, yet the body temperature remained unchanged, indicating that the body is very stressed to maintain homeostasis.

Increased stress is placed on the cardiovascular system and kidney, especially when dehydrated. To cool the heart, the skin has to pump hard to transmit blood, and the kidneys face the challenge of balanced fluid and electrolyte levels.

Heat exhaustion, if left untreated, can progress in heatstroke, a life-threatening condition where the body temperature exceeds 40 ° C.

The person may show symptoms of confusion, dry and warm skin, rapid heartbeat, vomiting and extreme cases, symptoms of organ failure.

Prolonged contact of summer can cause electrolyte imbalance, dehydration and even neurological function.

High temperatures also take a toll on the body, but also affect mental health. New York’s research found a relationship between excessive heat and anxiety, substance use and mood disorders like an increase in the hospital.

For children and students, heat also affects cognitive functions. Poor ventilation in classes can affect attention, reduce learning ability and trigger headaches.

Excessive heat and your organs

From serious conditions to a heatwave. These include heat rash and cramps, which are usually the first symptoms of heat related stress, especially in those working out.

Symptoms include fatigue, nausea, muscle cramps, and heavy sweating occurs when one is undergoing heat tiredness.

When heat tiredness is left uncontrolled, it leads to heatstroke, which is marked by a medical emergency, mental state and potential organ failure marked by body temperature above 40 ° C.

The heat can also spoil already existing respiratory and cardiovascular disorders and is known to trigger migraine, fainting and confusion.

How to be safe during a heatwave

According to WHO Guidelines:

• Keep the indoor spaces cool: open the windows at night, and close them during the day. Use blinds or curtains to block sunlight.
• Use limit equipment: Close electrical devices to reduce indoor heat.
• Use fans and AC: Fans do the best when the temperature is below 40C. Air conditioning should be set on 27C; Using a fan together can make it feel 4C coolers and cut electricity use up to 70%.
• Stay hydrated: Drink 2-3 liters of water daily. Avoid alcohol and caffeine that dehydrates the body.
• Properly dress: Wear light colored, loose clothes.
• Check on weak persons: Monitor children, elderly and people with old conditions regularly.

As climate change increases, heatwaves are becoming more frequent, long and fatal. Public health experts emphasize the importance of initial action, awareness and preparations to reduce heat related to heat and death.