The doctors stressed that it is important to be aware of the possible risks of venturing out in the extreme heat and also know the strategies for coping with extreme heat.
Dr Sudhir Kumar, a noted neurologist said “The technical term is vasovagal syncope, and the commonly used term is fainting. It can occur in all seasons but is more common in summer.”
“The heat can put extra strain on the body, which is trying to maintain a stable internal temperature. This happens through sweating and this process may lead to tiredness.”
“Even mild dehydration can impair cognitive functions, reduce concentration, and increase irritability,” said Dr Ravindra, a nephrologist from Ballari in Karnataka.
The main reason for increased occurences is, “that the blood vessels — veins and arteries — dilate, increasing blood flow to the arms and legs while reducing it to the heart.”
Typically, a person may lose consciousness — up to one or two minutes — before waking up. When the person goes unconscious, there may be an upward rolling of the eyeballs.