As heatwave conditions continue to intensify across several parts of India, doctors are warning that prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures may affect not only physical health but also neurological and eye-related functioning.
Health experts say soaring temperatures, dehydration and excessive exposure to sunlight can disturb the body’s internal balance, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, severe headaches, migraines, heat exhaustion and, in some cases, serious neurological complications.
Children, elderly people and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions are considered particularly vulnerable during extreme heat conditions.
Doctors Report Rise In Neurological Complaints
According to Vinit Suri, Senior Consultant in Neurology at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, hospitals are witnessing a noticeable increase in patients reporting neurological symptoms during the ongoing heatwave.
“The ongoing heatwave is beginning to show an impact beyond routine heat-related illnesses, with a noticeable increase in neurological complaints in our OPD,” Dr Suri said.
He revealed that outpatient visits related to neurological symptoms have increased significantly over the past few days.
“We have seen nearly a 20% increase in OPD patients over the past few days, with more people coming in with symptoms such as severe headaches, dizziness, disorientation, fainting episodes, worsening of existing neurological conditions, and especially migraine flare-ups,” he added.
How Heat Impacts Brain Function
Doctors explained that excessive heat and dehydration can affect blood flow to the brain and disturb the body’s electrolyte balance, placing additional stress on the nervous system.
Heat exposure and prolonged exposure to bright sunlight may also trigger migraines in susceptible individuals.
According to experts, extreme heat can lead to:
- Severe headaches
- Migraine attacks
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Fainting episodes
- Confusion
- Disorientation
- Heat exhaustion
In severe cases, symptoms such as seizures, slurred speech or loss of consciousness may signal a medical emergency.
Warning Signs Should Not Be Ignored
Dr Suri cautioned that persistent confusion, unusual drowsiness, slurred speech, seizures or unconsciousness should be treated seriously and require immediate medical attention.
“These may indicate a serious neurological emergency,” he warned.
Existing Neurological Conditions May Worsen
Sushma Sharma, Director of Neurology at Marengo Asia Hospitals, also highlighted that people already suffering from neurological disorders may experience worsening symptoms during extreme weather conditions.
According to her, conditions such as:
- Migraine
- Epilepsy
- Neurological disorders
can worsen because of excessive heat, dehydration, sleep disruption and stress caused by hot nights or power cuts.
Doctors Share Safety Tips During Heatwave
Health experts have advised people to avoid going outdoors during peak afternoon hours whenever possible.
If stepping out is necessary, doctors recommend:
- Using umbrellas
- Wearing sunglasses
- Covering the head
- Staying hydrated throughout the day
- Avoiding prolonged sun exposure
“Staying hydrated is equally important because dehydration caused by excessive sweating can also lead to confusion and neurological complications,” Dr Sharma said.
Experts also stress the importance of proper sleep, regular water intake and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during extreme heat conditions.