New Delhi: Amid an ongoing record-breaking heatwave, the recent death of a 40-year-old factory worker due to heatstroke has heightened concerns among healthcare professionals.
Doctors are urging the vulnerable population, particularly those working outdoors and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, to take extreme caution during this period of intense heat. An official from Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital reported that the deceased worker, who was admitted early Tuesday, likely succumbed to an “exertional” heatstroke. This condition is characterised by a dangerous rise in core body temperature resulting from strenuous physical activity in hot weather. The worker was brought to the hospital around 2 am, exhibiting altered sensorium—a significant change in mental status or consciousness that impacts awareness of oneself and the surroundings.
“Upon arrival, his body temperature was recorded at 107 degrees Fahrenheit, approximately 8-10 degrees above the normal range,” the hospital official stated. The patient was immediately admitted to the hospital’s newly inaugurated heatstroke unit, where all cooling methods were promptly initiated. Despite these efforts, he was placed on a ventilator and tragically passed away on Wednesday. This marks the first reported heatstroke fatality in Delhi this summer.
The importance of early cooling interventions was underscored by the attending physician. The doctor noted that the heatstroke unit has admitted six to seven patients exhibiting similar symptoms in the past week. “Four of these patients are still under treatment,” he added. In a related incident, a 63-year-old labourer from Seelampur was admitted to Lok Nayak Hospital on Tuesday with severe heatstroke. He also presented with a temperature of 107 degrees Fahrenheit upon admission. Following initial ventilator support and subsequent cooling treatments, his condition stabilised. Additionally, two other patients admitted with heatstroke three days ago have since recovered and been discharged.
Healthcare professionals emphasise that individuals with pre-existing conditions, such as cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, and kidney ailments, are particularly susceptible to heatstroke. Dehydration, a severe consequence of extreme heat, can be fatal for heart and kidney patients as it exacerbates their underlying conditions. This alarming rise in heatstroke cases and the associated fatalities underline the critical need for public awareness and preventive measures during heatwaves. The healthcare community strongly advises the public to remain hydrated, avoid excessive physical exertion in hot conditions, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms of heatstroke—such as high body temperature, altered mental state, and dehydration—occur.
As the city grapples with extreme temperatures, the importance of proactive and preventive health measures cannot be overstated. Authorities and medical professionals continue to stress the necessity of vigilance and preparedness to mitigate the adverse effects of this severe heatwave.
