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Summer Health Tips: The temperature is continuously increasing in the country. In such a situation, amidst the scorching heat, cases of heat stroke are increasing rapidly. Often people mistake it for dehydration or heat exhaustion and drink electrolyte drinks or ORS at home. But experts say that such things are not sufficient in every situation and in many cases it is necessary to seek medical help immediately. Let us know when to drink ORS in summer.

ORS beneficial in mild cases, but not enough in heat stroke

Dr. Pranjit Bhowmik, Chairman, Internal Medicine (Unit-I), Asian Hospital, says that in mild heat- cases like heat exhaustion, when the patient is conscious and there is no vomiting, then giving oral electrolytes i.e. ORS can be beneficial. But if the patient is not able to drink water or there is excessive dehydration, then IV fluids should be given immediately. He clearly says that ‘just giving fluid is not enough in heat stroke. In this, first of all it is necessary to reduce the body temperature rapidly and sometimes medicines are also required.

What is the difference between heat exhaustion vs heat stroke?

According to Dr. Bhowmik, in heat exhaustion the patient sees symptoms like excessive sweating, weakness, dizziness and slightly increased temperature. In this situation, the person should rest, cool his body and give fluids along with electrolytes. With this treatment the patient usually recovers quickly.

What is heat stroke?

Heat stroke is a serious medical emergency in which the body temperature exceeds 40 degrees Celsius and the patient may experience confusion, unconsciousness or altered mental status. In such cases the method of treatment changes completely. In this, the patient has to be immediately cooled, continuously monitored and admitted to the hospital. Delaying treatment of heat stroke increases the risk of organ failure.

Electrolyte solution vs IV fluid, which is better?

Health experts say that ORS and other electrolyte drinks are very useful in initial and mild cases. It helps maintain the balance of water and sodium in the body and can reduce fatigue, dizziness and muscle cramps.

When is IV fluid necessary?

However, IV fluids are considered more effective in case of severe dehydration or heat stroke. Doctors say that IV fluids go directly into the body and show their effect faster and helps the doctor to control the amount of fluid and electrolytes. It also reduces the risk of kidney damage.

What role do medicines play in heat stroke?

Medicines are not the main treatment in heat stroke but play a supporting role. If the patient is having seizures or excessive restlessness, then medicines like benzodiazepines can be given. In some cases, sedatives are also used to reduce body heat. Apart from this, medicines are also given in case of electrolyte imbalance, heart problems or deteriorating organ function.

Can too many electrolyte drinks cause harm?

According to doctors, taking excessive electrolyte drinks can also be harmful for health. This can increase the level of sodium in the body or increase the sugar load, which can also cause stomach problems.

What to do immediately in case of heat stroke?

Dr. Bhowmik advises that if heat stroke is suspected, the first thing to do is to bring down the body temperature.

• Immediately take the patient to shade or a cool place
• loosen or remove tight clothing
• cool the neck, armpits and thighs with ice or cold water
• If the patient is conscious then give him water in small quantities.
• Call emergency medical services immediately