As large parts of India continue to reel under intense summer heat, doctors are warning that soaring temperatures may do more than just cause exhaustion and dehydration; they could also increase the risk of stroke, especially among vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.
According to health experts, prolonged exposure to extreme heat can place significant stress on the body, triggering dehydration, fluctuations in blood pressure, and changes in blood circulation. In severe cases, this may contribute to both heatstroke and brain stroke emergencies.
India has been witnessing increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves over the past few years, with temperatures in several states crossing 45 degrees Celsius. Hospitals often report a spike in heat-related illnesses during such periods, ranging from heat cramps and heat exhaustion to life-threatening heatstroke.
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Heatstroke occurs when the body loses its ability to regulate temperature, causing the core body temperature to rise above 40 degrees Celsius (104°F).
Symptoms can include high fever, dry skin, rapid heartbeat, severe headache, nausea, confusion, dizziness, seizures, and even loss of consciousness. Without immediate treatment, the condition can lead to organ damage, brain injury, or death.
Doctors say the danger becomes even greater because extreme heat can also affect the brain and blood vessels. Dehydration thickens the blood and may reduce blood flow to the brain, while sudden changes in blood pressure can trigger vascular complications.
“Heatwaves increase the probability of suffering a stroke by dehydrating the patient, raising blood viscosity levels, and causing blood pressure fluctuations. This can make people more prone to ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes,” said Dr Gaurav Batra, neurosurgeon at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali.
Medical experts advise people to stay hydrated, avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours, wear loose and breathable clothing, and use cooling measures such as fans or air-conditioners wherever possible. Elderly individuals, children, outdoor workers, and patients with hypertension, diabetes, or cardiovascular conditions are considered particularly vulnerable during extreme heat events.
They also caution people not to ignore warning signs such as persistent dizziness, confusion, slurred speech, sudden weakness, severe headaches, or fainting episodes during hot weather, as these may indicate a medical emergency requiring urgent attention.
With climate scientists warning that heatwaves are becoming longer and more severe due to climate change, public health experts say awareness about heat-related illnesses and preventive measures is becoming increasingly critical.
