Phases Of Heat Illness: How Does Heat Affect Health?

Heat can have both direct and indirect effects on people. Heat illness, hastened respiratory disease mortality, cardiovascular disease, and hospitalisation are some of the immediate impacts. Indirect implications include increased food and waterborne disease transmission as well as the possibility for disruptions in electricity, water, transportation, and productivity. During the summer, the probability of drowning accidents is also seen to be higher.

Heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are three different stages of heat disease that can be severe and harmful to a child’s health. Fatigue, profuse perspiration, lightheadedness or dizziness, and calm skin and peripheries are some essential symptoms. Heat stroke, a severe form of heat disease, can develop if neglected.

Conjunctivitis is one of the previously listed ailments that is the most prevalent, and because it may be uncomfortable for children and put other family members at risk for infection, we will go into detail about it; Conjunctivitis, or “pink eye,” is a common condition among kids, especially those who are in school. It is an enlargement of the inner side lid conjunctiva.

Some disorders that look like conjunctivitis may actually be major rheumatological issues that cause uveitis (inflammation of the uvea, middle layer of the tissue in the eye). Children rarely develop chemical conjunctivitis.

Infectious conjunctivitis can be brought on by either viruses or bacteria. Moreover, tainted pool towels or water might transmit it. In addition, a child with conjunctivitis can potentially spread the illness to others if there is ocular discharge.

Avoid Heat-Related Illness:

• Spritz your skin with a mist of cool or room-temperature water.
• Block out the windows in your home — especially those that get afternoon sun — with a blanket or a darker sheet during the day to keep the heat out.
• If you don’t have A.C., keep windows open at night and run fans to circulate the air. Wirecutter, a New York Times company, has guidance on the best products to keep your home cool.
• Wipe your forehead with a cool cloth.
• Avoid strenuous exercise outdoors if possible.
• Put ice cubes in your water bottle, especially if you’re outdoors.
• If you do plan to exercise outside, or need to exert yourself outdoors for work, drink a slushie beforehand or douse your head in cold water. Cold showers can also help you cool down.

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