Heat Exhaustion Heat Stroke During Pregnancy: Signs, Symptoms, Prevention | Health

pregnant woman Many physical and emotional changes have to be dealt with, such as sudden mood swings and erratic appetites. It’s also equally true in hot weather, when high temperatures like the sky can affect pregnant women even more.according to health According to experts, moderate exposure to sunlight is necessary during filming. pregnancy To get adequate levels of vitamin D.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Aruna Kumari, Obstetrics and Gynecology Consultant, Cloud Nine Hospital Group, Berandur, Bangalore, explained: In the third trimester she is 20%. An additional 10% is added if you are carrying twins. When mercury levels rise, a pregnant woman’s body may exert several natural defenses. For example, sweat glands secrete water to the surface of the skin, which evaporates and cools nearby blood vessels. “

She further elaborated, “Sweating helps circulate cooler blood through your body, helping to lower your overall body temperature. Extreme weather can also jeopardize your baby’s health, with global warming This health risk may increase in the future: A study in the Journal of the American Heart Association reports that rising temperatures due to climate change may increase the number of congenital heart defects in the United States.

Risk of heat exposure during pregnancy

According to Dr. Aruna Kumari, there are four main concerns for pregnant women during heat waves:

1. heat cramps – Among heat-related symptoms, heat cramps are less dangerous. But exercising in hot weather can cause these uncomfortable involuntary cramps. Heat cramps last longer than regular nocturnal leg cramps and can affect the calves, arms, and stomach area. Dehydration and electrolyte deficiencies make it worse.
2. dehydration – If you lose more water than your body takes in (from not drinking enough water in hot weather or from exercising too hard), dehydration can occur. Reduced blood flow due to dehydration can interfere with placental perfusion. Drinking plenty of water is especially important during pregnancy because dehydration can increase uterine activity and increase the risk of preterm or pseudo-labor.
3. heatstroke – It occurs during hot weather, high humidity, or strenuous physical activity. Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which can be dangerous and even life-threatening, but it is difficult to detect because it resembles symptoms that pregnant women regularly face, such as fatigue, nausea, and muscle cramps. It can be difficult.
4. heatstroke – Prolonged heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke. It is the most serious type of heat-related illness and can occur when body temperature rises above 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat stroke is dangerous for women and developing babies and can cause brain, heart, kidney and muscle damage.

Signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke during pregnancy

Dr. Aruna Kumari suggested that if you feel tired and thirsty after spending time outside on a hot day, look out for the following signs of heat exhaustion and heat exhaustion during pregnancy and get help: .

• Malaise
• dizzy
• syncope
• Cool and moist skin with goosebumps
• profuse sweating
• Weak or rapid pulse
• muscle spasms
• headache
• nausea
• vomiting
• high body temperature (above 104 degrees Fahrenheit)
• confusion
• slurred
• racing heart
• quick breathing

Tips to prevent summer fatigue and heat stroke during pregnancy

“Check the weather forecast during the warmer months to know when to use air conditioning and sleep quietly indoors,” says Dr Aruna Kumari. Keep yourself and your baby safe, especially when the temperature rises.Pregnancy and hot weather are not a good combination, so stay indoors during heat waves, drink plenty of water, and wait until the temperature cools down. Please refrain from strenuous exercise.”

Recommending tips to stay healthy and hydrated this summer, she claimed:

• drink up: Drinking plenty of water and juices is key to staying hydrated in this hot summer. Consuming citrus and fresh fruit can also help keep you hydrated as they are rich in minerals and vitamin C.
• Moisturize: Just like your body, your skin needs to stay hydrated. Protect your skin with a moisturizer and always apply sunscreen before going out in the sun.
• relaxation: Ease your body from the anxieties of pregnancy and get plenty of rest in a cool and cozy room.
• it rains often: Take a shower several times a day to lower your body temperature.
• light clothing: Wear loose, light clothing that allows for some breathing. Cotton is the best choice for summer. Layers are convenient because you can take them off when you don’t need them.
• Avoid the midday sun. Stay indoors during the hottest hours of the day, from 10am to 2pm.
• Check your urine. A dark color indicates a lack of water and may indicate dehydration.
• avoid heavy food: Eating light meals and plenty of fruits and vegetables can help you maintain your intake of nutritious foods and maintain a stable body temperature level.
• Good results: Pregnant women are encouraged to exercise, so it is recommended to exercise early in the morning or after sunset to avoid heat stroke.
• Cold compression: Cold compresses on the palms and soles of the feet can help reduce body temperature.
• Avoid hot tubs and saunas during pregnancy. Heat and humidity are not the only culprits. Bathing in hot tubs and using saunas, which are not recommended during pregnancy, can also lead to dehydration and heat stroke.