Heat exhaustion is a common problem in an extremely hot environment. It is brought about by excessive exposure to the sun heat. Heat stroke is a serious medical condition which calls for prompt medical attention. Otherwise, it may lead to severe complications like shock, brain damage and even death. However, timely application of home remedies is highly beneficial for avoiding such grave consequences.

Causes of heat stroke

· Prolong exposure to the sun during hot and humid weather conditions.

· Imbalance in thermosetting system of the body.

· Dehydration due to excessive sweating.

Symptoms of heat stroke

Weakness, low blood pressure, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, muscle cramps, scarce sweating, high body temperature, difficulty in breathing, unconsciousness, restlessness, increased heartbeat, excessive thirst etc.

Keeping yourself cool during  the hot and humid weather is extremely important. Few tips include:

Take out the juice of holy basil. Add little sugar and drink every day.

Make aam panna adding jaggery, salt, cumin powder, black pepper powder, mint leaves and water to raw mango pulp. Drink a cup full of this aam panna thrice a day.

Consume a glass full of buttermilk twice a day.

Drink aloe Vera juice every day.

Drink fresh plum juice adding little sugar every day.

Consume mint-coriander chutney with every meal.

Take dried edible parts of Bengal gram shrubs. Grind it with little water. Strain and sweeten with sugar. Consume this decoction thrice a day.

Consume fresh fruits and vegetables as much as possible.

Make cooling foods like onion, cucumber and mint a part of your daily diet.

Consume low-fat yogurt every day.

Peppermint tea and raspberry tea are also a great prevention for heat strokes.

Cut back on salt consumption. Due to high sodium content, salt can hamper the regular production of sweat in the body which can result in heat stroke.

Stay away from caffeine. Caffeinated beverages lead to frequent urination and thus cause loss of water.

Stop or minimise alcohol consumption.

Wear face masks, sunglasses and hat when out in the sun. Do not forget to carry an umbrella.

India is currently battling extreme heat conditions. Dehydration is a crucial cause behind the incidence of heat stroke during hot and humid weather. So, ensure to consume a diet with high water content to keep your body hydrated.