Sunstroke: Avoid direct exposure to sunlight between 11 am and 3 pm, warns health department

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The health department has advised not to expose the body to direct sunlight between 11 am and 3 pm owing to the risk of sun stroke. The health department has instructed the districts to take precautions against sunburn, sunstroke and infectious diseases.

If the ambient temperature rises beyond the limit, the body may sweat more and become dehydrated. If not careful, this can even lead to death. Elderly people, children, pregnant women, those with serious illnesses and those working in the sun should be especially careful. Minister Veena George requested that everyone follow the guidelines given by the health department.

Drink water, thirsty or not

• Even if you don't feel thirsty, you should drink plenty of boiled water
• Those who drink cold water should ensure the purity of the ice
• Avoid direct sunlight, use an umbrella or a hat
• Clothing should be thin white-coloured or light-coloured
• Children should not be allowed to play in the sun
• Do not leave children in vehicles parked in the sun
• Keep the doors and windows of the house open

In the event of sunstroke

• Move to the shade and rest, and remove thick clothing
• Wash your face with water and cool your body.
• Drink salted porridge water, lemon water, tender coconut water etc
• Get immediate treatment for those who faint.

Sunburn and sunstroke?

If the ambient temperature rises, the body's thermoregulatory systems are disrupted. Dissipation of body heat will also be hindered. It can impair body functions. This condition is sunstroke. Sunburn is a less severe condition than sunstroke. Those who work in the sun may experience reddening, pain and burning in the body parts directly exposed to the sun. This is called sunburn.