New Delhi: As Delhi continues to reel under an intense heatwave, Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital has admitted its first heatstroke patient of the season, officials confirmed on Tuesday.
First Heatstroke Case of the Season
The patient, a 45-year-old man, was brought to the hospital on Monday evening with symptoms of heatstroke, including high body temperature, confusion, and loss of consciousness. He is currently under observation in the intensive care unit (ICU) and is reported to be in stable condition.
Heatwave Conditions in Delhi
Delhi has been experiencing scorching temperatures, with the mercury crossing 44 degrees Celsius in several parts of the city over the past few days. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for heatwave conditions in the region, urging residents to take precautions.
Doctors at RML Hospital have advised people to avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and wear light clothing. They also cautioned against leaving children or pets in parked vehicles, as temperatures inside can rise rapidly.
Precautions and Advice
In light of the heatwave, the hospital has set up a special heatstroke management unit to handle an expected influx of patients. Dr. Suresh Kumar, Medical Superintendent at RML Hospital, said, "We are fully prepared to deal with heatstroke cases. The public should be vigilant and take immediate action if they experience symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or excessive sweating."
The hospital has also released a list of dos and don'ts for the public:
- Drink plenty of water and fluids, even if not thirsty.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks as they can dehydrate.
- Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day (12 pm to 4 pm).
- Use umbrellas, hats, and sunscreen if going out.
- Never leave anyone, especially children or pets, in a parked car.
Authorities have also opened cooling centers in various parts of the city to provide relief to those without access to air conditioning. The heatwave is expected to persist for the next few days, with a slight respite possible over the weekend.
