How Extreme Heat Affects The Nervous System: The difference is clearly felt as soon as we step out in the Indian summer. It is not just heat, but a kind of heaviness, which affects the body as well as the mind. Gradually, fatigue increases, attention starts getting lost and sometimes the situation becomes even more serious. We often talk about dehydration, sunburn or fatigue, but in reality heat also has a direct impact on the brain. In extreme heat, symptoms like headache, dizziness, confusion and difficulty in concentrating start appearing.
What do experts say?
Speaking to TOI Health, Dr. Shubha Subramanian, senior neurologist at Cauvery Hospital, Chennai, says that due to excessive heat and humidity in summer, there is a deficiency of water and sodium in the body, which can even lead to seizures. Due to excessive sweating, sodium level falls and this situation becomes more dangerous. In many cases, heat stroke can also occur, which increases the risk of fainting and seizures. In such a situation, especially people who already have the problem of seizures, they should keep themselves hydrated and wear light, loose and light colored clothes.
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Which people are affected?
Children, the elderly and people who already have neurological problems are at greater risk. Apart from this, for people who work outside for long hours, like delivery workers, traffic police or street vendors, this problem becomes a daily routine. At the same time, even inside the house it is not always a safe environment. Poor ventilation, power cuts or lack of cooling can worsen the situation, affecting the balance of the brain.
The risk of which diseases increases?
According to Dr. Shubha Subramanian, heat also affects many diseases about which we do not talk much. For example, epilepsy conditions like Dravet syndrome in children can worsen in summer. Apart from this, excessive heat can cause memory loss, brain fog and affect the ability to think. Symptoms can increase in diseases like multiple sclerosis, while the risk of stroke also increases due to dehydration.
Heat can also be dangerous for Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s patients, because their body’s ability to control temperature is weak. At the same time, exposure to sunlight can trigger headaches in people suffering from migraine. Heat also increases fatigue, making everyday life more difficult.
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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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