Delhi has reported its first heat stroke case of the season as extreme temperatures continue to grip the national capital. A 24-year-old student from West Bengal is currently battling for his life after suffering a severe heat stroke while travelling by train to Delhi. He was rushed to Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, where doctors say his condition remains critical.
Healthy Young Man Suffers Severe Heat Stroke
According to hospital officials, the young man had no major medical history and was otherwise healthy. However, prolonged exposure to intense heat during travel reportedly caused his body temperature to rise dangerously, leading to heat stroke — a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body is unable to regulate its temperature.
Doctors at RML Hospital immediately started emergency treatment, including immersion cooling therapy, which is considered one of the most effective methods to rapidly reduce body temperature in severe heat stroke cases. The patient is currently under close observation in critical care.
IMD Warns Of Severe Heatwave Conditions
The case has raised serious concerns as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that Delhi and several parts of North India may continue to experience heat wave to severe heat wave conditions over the coming days. Temperatures in the capital have already crossed dangerous levels, increasing the risk of dehydration, exhaustion, and heat-related illnesses.
Doctors Urge People To Stay Hydrated
Speaking about the situation, Dr. Ajay Chauhan, Director of Medicine and nodal officer for heat stroke at RML Hospital, urged people to take precautions seriously.
“People should stay hydrated with water, ORS, and electrolytes, and take frequent shade breaks during peak heat,” he advised.
Doctors say heat stroke can affect anyone, including young and healthy individuals, especially if they are exposed to high temperatures for long hours without proper hydration. Symptoms may include high fever, dizziness, confusion, rapid heartbeat, headache, vomiting, dry skin, and unconsciousness. Medical experts warn that delayed treatment can lead to organ failure and even death.
Who Is Most At Risk During Heatwave?
Health experts are advising people to avoid stepping out during afternoon hours, wear light cotton clothes, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid strenuous physical activity in direct sunlight. Travellers, outdoor workers, students, elderly individuals, and children are considered particularly vulnerable during severe heat conditions.
The rising temperatures have once again highlighted the growing health risks associated with extreme weather conditions in India. Hospitals across Delhi have also been instructed to remain prepared for an increase in heat-related emergencies in the coming weeks.
Doctors Warn Against Ignoring Early Symptoms
As Delhi faces another intense summer, doctors are urging citizens not to ignore early warning signs of heat exhaustion and to seek immediate medical help if symptoms worsen. The condition of the student admitted at RML Hospital remains critical, making this case a strong reminder of how dangerous extreme heat can become.