Summer Health Problems: Temperatures in Delhi have already surpassed 45 degrees Celsius, and the situation could worsen in the coming days. But it's not just the intense heat during the day that's a cause for concern.

How is increasing heat increasing diseases?

How Rising Night Temperatures Increase Disease Risk: In many parts of the country, including Delhi, the heat is taking a toll on people's health not only during the day but also at night. While nighttime used to provide respite from the day's heat, rising temperatures are now preventing the body from resting even at night. Doctors and researchers believe that persistently hot nights are increasing the risk of serious diseases like heart disease, dehydration, and stroke.

Mercury crosses 45 in Delhi.

According to the Meteorological Department, temperatures in Delhi have already surpassed 45 degrees Celsius, and the situation could worsen in the coming days. But it's not just the intense heat during the day that's a cause for concern. Experts say that the lack of nighttime temperatures is proving even more dangerous for the body. Normally, the body cools down at night and recovers from the day's stress. However, when the heat persists even at night, the body remains under constant pressure.

What harm does night heat cause?

Research has shown that hot nights can increase the risk of heart and stroke-related deaths. A study from the National Institutes of Health found that when an extremely hot day is followed by an unusually hot night, the body cannot recover, and health risks multiply. In particular, the risk of stroke and heart disease was found to be higher.

Why is it a problem for cities like Delhi?

In large cities like Delhi, the urban heat island effect is exacerbating this problem. Concrete buildings, limited greenery, and poor ventilation trap heat overnight. This impacts those living in small homes or without air conditioning the most. In many homes, temperatures remain above 31 degrees Celsius even at night, disrupting sleep and preventing the body from getting adequate rest.

Why is the problem increasing in Delhi?

Delhi hospitals are also seeing a rapid increase in patients with heat-related illnesses. According to Dr. Arvind Kumar Agarwal, the number of patients presenting with dehydration, heat exhaustion, and early symptoms of heat stroke has increased in the emergency ward. Dr. Atul says that children, the elderly, and those suffering from heart, lung, or kidney disease are most affected. Doctors are now advising not only to avoid the sun during the day, but also to keep cool and hydrated at night. The World Health Organization has also listed heat as one of the world's biggest environmental health threats.