As afternoons grow hotter with the onset of April, cityfolk can be seen sipping cold juice, nannari sherbet and tender coconut to sate their thirst.
With the India Meteorological Department recording temperatures ranging between 38 and 41 degree Celsius in the city last week, doctors and dieticians have a number of tips to tackle the scorching heat.
Children should avoid playing outdoors during the afternoons and, instead, venture out in the morning and evening, says former Dean (in-charge) of Government Rajaji Hospital S. Shanmugasundaram.
The paediatrician says there is usually a spike in the number of cases of diarrhoea, measles and chickenpox during the season. “Contaminated water is a major cause of such illnesses. Everyone must ensure that they drink potable water without impurities.”
Also, schools must avoid conducting special examinations for those with such illnesses, as they are highly contagious and can spread to other children as well.
The doctor advises against drinking cold water after venturing out in the sun as it causes fluctuation in body temperature. One must wait for the body to return to room temperature before consuming cold drinks in order to avoid sore throat and summer fever.
Dermatologists also suggest covering the face and applying sunscreen with appropriate sun protection factor to avoid burns.
M. Sooriyakumar, Professor of Medicine, Government Theni Medical college, says drinking between 1.5 litres to 4 litres of water will be necessary for those who step out in the sun. “It is better if conservancy and construction workers avoid exposure to the sun, as heatstroke occurs between 12 noon and 3 p.m.”