As the city grapples with extreme heat, five individuals have been hospitalized due to heat stroke over the past two days. Ram Manohar Lohia (RML), Safdarjung, and Lok Nayak hospitals have reported these cases, with two patients in critical condition on ventilator support.
Among the critically ill at RML is an 80-year-old man who arrived unconscious with a dangerously high rectal temperature of 107.5°F, indicating severe hyperthermia. The patient had a systolic blood pressure of 60 and was experiencing respiratory distress. Immediate medical intervention involved intubation and immersion cooling techniques, which successfully lowered his temperature to 98.4°F within an hour. Despite these efforts, the patient’s condition remains critical, with potential heart attack symptoms under investigation.
Another critical patient at RML is a 31-year-old woman transferred from a private hospital. She had been traveling and suffered multiple episodes of vomiting. Her temperature was 105°F, with a systolic blood pressure of 240, indicating a hypertensive emergency along with heat-related illness. Despite stabilizing her vitals, she remains on ventilator support, with close medical monitoring necessary for her recovery.
A 60-year-old man was admitted after fainting while working in extreme heat. Neighbors brought him to the hospital with a body temperature of 105°F. Immersion cooling therapy reduced his temperature to 97.5°F. Although initially drowsy, he showed no signs of brain damage and has improved since admission.
At Safdarjung Hospital, a 90-year-old woman was admitted unconscious and in critical condition. A chronic smoker, her body temperature was 105°F upon arrival, necessitating intubation. Her condition remains critical.
Lok Nayak Hospital admitted a 40-year-old man with a high-grade fever and altered mental status. Doctors are treating him for heat-related illness, and his condition is under close observation.
The severe heatwave in Delhi has led to a significant rise in heat stroke cases. Hospitals are preparing for more admissions as temperatures continue to soar. Medical professionals urge the public to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight, and seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms of heat-related illnesses.
Residents are advised to drink plenty of water, wear light clothing, and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours. Authorities have set up cooling centers and distributed water to vulnerable populations to mitigate the heat’s impact.
