Kerala's rising temperatures pose health risk: Thrissur DMO's tips to fight sun strokes and dehydration

Across districts in Kerala, rising temperatures, UV radiation, and water scarcity are increasing health risks for people of all ages. Before the summer's side effects affect our fitness, it is important to take steps to safeguard our bodies. Thrissur DMO Dr TP Sreedevi said that self-prevention is essential to prevent sunstroke and dehydration, as temperatures have been rising alarmingly during the day. Here are some helpful tips:

•Try to avoid exposing yourself to direct sunlight between 11 am and 3 pm. Those who work in open spaces should reschedule their working hours. Children, elderly people, pregnant women, and those who suffer from exhaustion due to illness should take extra care. 
•Do not forget a cap, a towel and an umbrella whenever you are going out. Make sure to wear footwear or shoes. It is better to wear light-coloured cotton outfits in summer. Washing the face, hands and legs at regular intervals would be refreshing. Do not leave children or old people inside parked cars. 

•Carry water bottles from home when you go out. It is important to drink water regularly, even if you are not thirsty, to prevent dehydration. Besides, one should drink more water depending on the nature of their job and the amount of sweating. Buttermilk, tender coconut water, and lemonade can also be enjoyed during summer. 
•Try to limit the intake of tea, coffee and carbonated drinks. Fruits with high water content and vegetables should be washed thoroughly before consuming. 

•The windows should be curtained to avoid getting directly hit with sunlight. Meanwhile, these windows should be opened at night to ensure good air circulation, without letting in mosquitoes and other insects. Try to spend time mostly on the ground floor of a building during the day. 
•High body temperature, dehydrated body, severe headache, nausea, lowered heartbeats, changes in mental state, falling unconscious, red bumps on skin, body pain, burns, pimples, muscle pull, vomiting and low amount of urine that is also yellow in colour are some of the symptoms of sun stroke. Do not hesitate to seek immediate medical help if you notice these symptoms.