Mumbai, Thane and other neighbouring districts in Maharashtra's Konkan region are sweltering under an unexpected, scorching heatwave in February! It's time to take cover and follow all precautions.
Dr Vidhe Sharma, consultant physician at Pune's Ruby Hall Clinic, suggests tips on how you can keep cool.
Water is your best friend on hot summer days. Carry a water bottle with you and sip the rejuvenating H2O. Drink eight glasses of water daily, more if you are sweating profusely.
Choose light, loose clothes that allow your skin to breathe and keep you cool and comfortable. Use an umbrella, or cover your head with a scarf, while you are outdoors. Wear sunglasses.
Before you step outdoors, do apply sunscreen. Make this a part of your daily routine. Don't forget to reapply every two hours, especially if you are spending time outdoors.
Keep your water and energy levels high by consuming fruits that are rich in water-content and essential minerals. Quench your thirst with melons, natural fruit juices and coconut water instead of sodas or packaged beverages.
Avoid exercising during the hottest parts of the day. Instead, schedule your workouts for early morning or late evening.
Learn to recognise signs like nausea, dizziness and a rapid heartbeat that could indicate heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
Seek immediate medical help if you or someone else shows these symptoms.
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