Heatwave maybe affecting your health silently. Here's how to deal with it
The summer came in a little earlier this year (that too in full swing) and it is giving each of us a hard time. But we have got some good news finally. According to the weather department, most parts of the country are likely to experience some relief and there will be no increase in maximum temperature.
With extreme rise in temperature in the past few weeks, the heatwave has affected the overall health of many individuals.
Many are experiencing symptoms like poor digestion, nausea, fatigue and much more.
A common misconception: Usually people believe that an air-conditioned environment is enough to protect them from the heat. But, unless your body is cool from the inside, you’re not dealing with the heat properly.
Here’s a list of ways the heatwave can affect your health.
SILENT SIDE-EFFECTS OF THE HEATWAVE:
1. Nausea and vomiting
You don’t feel like eating during the summers. Also, nausea is a commonly reported symptom. It is the effect of the extreme heat that leads to nausea and vomiting in summer.
The heat also affects your digestion. Due to dehydration, your digestive system is not able to perform effectively. Therefore, digestive issues including nausea and vomiting are common.
2. Tiredness and weakness
You need to consume adequate nutrients and liquids to stay active and healthy.
Loss of water from the body through excessive sweat is one of the reasons why you feel tired and weak during summers.
3. Headache
A headache during summer is quite common. Now you know the excessive heat is the reason why your head hurts for no reason.
4. Low blood pressure
Dehydration can sometimes lead to low blood pressure which further makes you dizzy.
5. Abdominal cramps
You might have noticed that many people are complaining about abdominal cramps these days. Well, you can blame the heat for this. Poor digestion, unhealthy eating habits, dehydration and severe fluid and electrolyte loss can lead to these cramps.
Other than these, excessive heat can also lead to dry skin, rashes, excessive sweating and irritability.
How to avoid these issues
Other than staying indoors or at cool places, you need to make a few changes in your diet and lifestyle to beat the heat:
EAT SEASONAL FOODS
Watermelon, cucumbers and muskmelon are easily available during this season. They contain high water content and are easy on the digestive system. They leave a cooling effect on your digestive system. So, eat at least 2-3 servings of seasonal fruits every day.
CHOOSE RIGHT LIQUIDS
Staying hydrated is crucial during the summer. But not every liquid will help you stay hydrated.
Choose what you drink wisely. Remember, alcohol, coffee, tea, sports drinks and sodas are liquids but can dehydrate you.
Instead, choose buttermilk, lemon water (if you can afford it right now), fresh fruit juices (with no sugar), shakes, cucumber juice, coconut water and of course normal water.
EAT MINDFULLY
Eating mindfully helps deal with the effect of the heat on your digestive system.
Choose foods that are easy on your digestive system.
It will also help you maintain a healthy weight.
A green salad over oily food in summer will not let the heat take toll on your health. So, make wise choices when the weather is not treating you so well.
SKIP STRENUOUS EXERCISES
Exercising is important throughout the year. But if you are dehydrated or exhausted due to excessive heat, avoid vigorous exercises that can leave you drained.
If the heat is affecting your overall well-being too, take note of the above-mentioned points.
Also, seek medical help if your symptoms are severe.