Large parts of the country are currently experiencing an intensely hot summer, with temperatures soaring to record levels. The extreme heat has already claimed lives in states like Bihar, Odisha, Gujarat and Delhi. 

So today, we dedicate this episode to discussing heat waves, how they affect our bodies, and the precautions you should take to stay safe. Joining us for this discussion is Dr. Dileep Mavalankar, honorary professor and former director of the Indian Institute of Public Health, Gandhinagar.

Hosted and produced by Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

Timestamps:

What counts as a heatwave (01:21)

What happens during a heat stroke (04:40)

Prickly heat, heat cramps, and heat syncope (06:36)

The difference between heat stroke and heat exhaustion (07:26)

Precautions to take when stepping out (10:46)

When your job requires you to be outside (12:53)

Is electrolyte better than water? (14:23)

Does the temperature of drinking water matter? (15:25)

When you don't have access to air conditioning (18:42)

Should you avoid showering when the water is not cool? (21:35)

A note for kids and pregnant women (22:53)

Why cities are getting hotter (23:41)

The best time to exercise/workout (26:26)

Changes that can be implemented to cities (27:06)