Chennai doctors have cautioned that people must drink water frequently during the summer, warning that dehydration can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes even for those staying indoors.
With temperatures rising, the Centre and state governments have stepped up preventive measures. Government hospitals have kept medicines ready to treat heat-related illnesses, and special wards have been set up in district and medical college hospitals for heatstroke cases.
Public health expert Dr. Kuzhandaisamy said consuming adequate fluids such as water, buttermilk, porridge and tender coconut water is beneficial in hot weather. He stressed that hydration is not only for those who go out; people at home also lose body water during heatwaves.
He noted that some avoid drinking water because they do not feel very thirsty, but reduced body fluids can lead to blood clotting, which may trigger heart attacks and strokes. He added that deaths from these conditions are higher in summer than in cold or rainy seasons, and urged special attention to hydration among the elderly to reduce the risk of fatal outcomes.
