New Delhi, May 28 (IANS). Summer season can be especially challenging for pregnant women. ‘Heat stress’ caused by excessive accumulation of heat in the body can prove to be extremely dangerous during pregnancy. This condition not only affects the mother but can also pose a risk to the health of the baby in the womb. In such a situation, pregnant women should take special precautions to prevent heat stress.
Heat stress occurs when heat builds up inside the body and it is unable to expel it. This heat may come from working muscles or from an external hot environment such as bright sunlight, a hot room or a factory. Heat stress begins when the process of controlling body temperature is affected. If timely attention is not given, this situation can take a serious form.
Early symptoms of heat stress include heat rash or skin rashes and muscle cramps. This can lead to heat exhaustion, which can eventually lead to heat stroke. Heat stroke can damage the brain and other organs and can even be fatal.
During pregnancy, women’s body feels more heat than before. Hormonal changes, increased weight and extra blood circulation increase the risk of heat stress. Due to this, the mother may face problems like fatigue, dizziness, headache and vomiting. In severe cases, the child may also be adversely affected.
The AYUSH Department of Madhya Pradesh Government advises pregnant women to take some precautions in summer, by adopting which heat stress can be avoided. Health experts say, drink adequate amount of water, ORS, buttermilk and lemonade throughout the day. It is very important to avoid dehydration. Along with this, wear light, loose and cotton clothes which can absorb sweat. Avoid exposure to strong sunlight between 11 pm to 4 pm.
Health experts say that major dangers can be avoided by adopting small precautions during pregnancy. For this, rest regularly and stay in a cool, ventilated place. Use a fan or cooler inside the house. If symptoms like dizziness, severe headache, vomiting or extreme fatigue appear, contact the doctor immediately and rest in a cool place.
–IANS
MT/DKP
