New Delhi: A 24-year-old student from West Bengal has become Delhi’s first reported heat stroke victim of the season. He is in critical condition at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital after his health suddenly worsened while he was travelling by train.
The case has raised fresh concern as Delhi is staring at punishing heat. The India Meteorological Department has warned of heat wave to severe heat wave conditions over northwest and central India this week, with Delhi likely to touch 46 degrees Celsius on May 21 and 22.
Delhi reports first heat stroke case of season
The student was admitted to RML Hospital at 1:45 AM with a body temperature of more than 105 degree F, which is about 40.6 degrees Celsius. He also had repeated vomiting, uncontrollable diarrhoea and confusion.
Doctors have ruled out other causes and confirmed severe heat stroke. Emergency immersion cooling treatment has been started.
Many of us think heat stroke happens only to outdoor workers or elderly people. This case shows even a young and healthy person can be hit badly if the body fails to cool down.
Doctor warns people to stay hydrated
Dr Ravi Kesari, MBBS, MD, Internal Medicine, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bengaluru, said the effect of extreme heat is often ignored till it starts affecting daily life. “There is an increase in the occurrence of dehydration, dizziness, exhaustion, headache, muscle cramps, and heat exhaustion during heat waves. In extreme cases, heat stroke may occur due to prolonged heat exposure, which is considered a medical emergency,” he said.
He warned that heat can be more dangerous for older people and those with existing health issues. “Heat exposure can exacerbate heart, respiratory, and renal disorders in people of advanced age and in patients with pre-existing conditions. It is highly crucial to stay hydrated throughout the day regardless of the lack of thirst,” Dr Kesari said.
Dr Kesari also advised people to avoid outdoor activity in the middle of the day, especially those doing heavy physical work or exercise. “Symptoms such as nausea, weakness, confusion, and sweating never be ignored, as they may indicate the early development of heat-related illness,” he said.
How to spot heat exhaustion early
Doctors are also seeing more heat-related cases such as dehydration, headache, cramps and rashes.
Watch out for these warning signs:
| Symptom | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Nausea or vomiting | Can point to rising heat stress |
| Weakness or dizziness | Body may be struggling to cool down |
| Confusion | A serious red flag |
| Heavy sweating or no sweating | Needs quick attention |
| Muscle cramps | Can happen after salt and water loss |
People should avoid outdoor activity during the hottest hours, wear light clothes and rest in shade. And yes, drink water even if you do not feel thirsty. That small habit may save a hospital trip.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general awareness only and should not be treated as medical advice. Please speak to a qualified doctor or healthcare specialist for diagnosis, treatment, or any health-related concern. News9Live is not responsible for any action taken based on this information.