What is heat stroke? How to prevent it, this summer
The scorching summer has arrived! During the hot season, your chances of falling prey to heat exhaustion, or even worse, heat strokes are more than ever. Simply put, a heat stroke refers to the condition of body overheating, usually due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Here are causes, symptoms and home remedies that might help reduce your risk of heat-stroke.
Causes and symptoms of heat stroke
Causes: A heat stroke occurs due to overexposure to high temperatures, especially if you perform strenuous activity in such weather. Wearing excessive clothing, getting dehydrated, consuming excessive alcohol may also cause heat stroke. Symptoms: A high body temperature, altered mental behavior, nausea/vomiting, flushed/red skin, faster breathing might indicate a heat stroke. Other common symptoms include increased heart rate, excessive sweating, dizziness, and headache.
Home remedies: Onion juice and Aam panna
Onion juice: Ayurveda has it that applying onion juice over your skin can effectively help lower your body temperature. Thus, by keeping you cool, it protects you from the harsh sun, and reduces the risk of heat stroke. Aam panna: An amazingly refreshing drink, Aam panna also has great health benefits. Consuming Aam panna regularly will help energize you and restore your body's electrolytes.
Buttermilk and Coconut water
Buttermilk: This tasty drink is great for hydrating and cooling down the body. Furthermore, its richness in electrolytes, probiotics, protein, and essential minerals will help energize the body. Coconut water: A summer favorite, coconut water keeps you hydrated for long. Packed with all essential electrolytes, fiber and other nutrients, it will keep you cool. It is also good for skin and heart health.
ACV and Sandalwood paste
ACV: Loaded with essential minerals and electrolytes, Apple Cider Vinegar is great for beating the heat, this summer season. It will help restore electrolytes lost from sweating. Add it to your juices or simply mix in plain cool water to reap its benefits. Sandalwood paste: Massage your forehead and chest using some sandalwood paste to stay cool, and protected from the unforgiving summer heat.
Other preventive measures
To stay cool and healthy during summers, follow these simple tips: 1) Avoid heading out during peak sun hours, ie. from 10 AM and 4 PM, unless it's inevitable. 2) Eat a healthy diet, especially one that's rich in water-content. 3) Do not indulge in strenuous activity, especially outdoors. 4) Wear light-colored, comfortable clothing. 5) Drink plenty of water regularly. 6) Use sunscreen daily.
