With rising temperatures across the country, Dr. Anubhuti Rana, an associate professor at AIIMS Delhi, emphasized the seriousness of heatwaves for pregnant women. She highlighted the risks of exhaustion and dehydration, which can impact both the mother and the fetus. Dr. Rana advised expectant mothers to stay hydrated, rest frequently, and consume nutritious food like coconut water and ‘shikanji’ during hot weather.
Pregnant women were also advised to include salt and lemon in their water intake to combat the effects of the heat. Dr. Rana recommended avoiding outdoor activities between 12 to 4 p.m. and wearing loose, comfortable clothing at home. These precautions, according to the doctor, are essential to manage the challenges posed by the heatwave.
In a related context, Dr. Piyush Ranjan from AIIMS Delhi warned about the increased risk of dehydration and heatstroke during high temperatures. He cautioned that dehydration could escalate to heatstroke, commonly known as ‘loo lagna,’ leading to severe consequences like loss of consciousness. Dr. Neeraj Nishchal emphasized the importance of replenishing salts lost through sweating by consuming ORS solutions or electrolytes during extreme heat conditions.
Meanwhile, Gujarat experienced intense heat, with temperatures soaring to 43.3 degrees Celsius in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar, and 43.8 degrees Celsius in Surendranagar. The Weather department predicted stable temperatures in the coming week, with the possibility of light to moderate rainfall in isolated districts. A weather official mentioned the likelihood of rain in specific areas of Gujarat and Saurashtra.
