Bhopal is reeling under an intense heatwave, with temperatures hovering around 44 degrees Celsius, leading to a surge in heat-related illnesses. Doctors across the city are reporting a sharp increase in cases of blood clotting disorders and rare neurological conditions, particularly among younger patients.
Heatwave Sparks Blood Clotting and Stroke Risks
According to Dr Ayush Dubey, a neurologist at Gandhi Medical College (GMC), while venous clotting is not uncommon, cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) remains relatively rare. However, the current heatwave, compounded by dehydration, has made younger patients particularly vulnerable. Unlike arterial strokes that typically affect older individuals, CVT is now being seen in younger age groups. Severe headaches are often the first symptom, and timely diagnosis is crucial to prevent lasting damage.
Lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption and certain medications can act as triggers, but dehydration has emerged as a significant contributor, health experts noted.
Hospital Reports Multiple Clotting Cases
Hamidia Hospital, affiliated with GMC, has documented four cases of sinus thrombosis in its neurology and neurosurgery outpatient department over the past month. Additionally, about 40 patients have been admitted with venous thrombosis, a condition where clots form in the veins of the legs. These cases are often linked to prolonged sitting, smoking, alcohol use, and contraceptive medication.
Some patients have presented with seizures, vision loss, and limb weakness, underscoring the severity of the condition.
Doctors Urge Hydration and Precautions
Dr Anil Shejwar, a medicine specialist at GMC, urged residents to guard against dehydration by drinking ample water daily, avoiding direct sun exposure, and wearing light cotton clothing.
Acute Kidney Injury Among Vulnerable Groups
Pediatricians have also raised concerns over acute kidney injury among children and the elderly. Hamidia Hospital has reported six such cases in about three weeks. Dr Rajesh Tikkas of Hamidia Hospital noted that dehydration is straining kidney function, compounding risks for vulnerable groups.
Vigilance and Hydration Key to Combat Health Crisis
Doctors across the city emphasized that vigilance and hydration are the most effective defense against the mounting health crisis brought on by the relentless heat. With Bhopal bracing for continued high temperatures, medical professionals urge everyone to stay hydrated, avoid heat exposure, and seek medical attention if symptoms like severe headache, seizures, or limb weakness occur.
