New Delhi: Heatwave continues to create havoc in various parts of India. There is no sign of relief from this hot weather across the northern states of the country. The rise in temperature has increased the hospitalisation rates and admissions in recent times. As climate change continues to alter global weather patterns, heat waves have become increasingly common and intense. These heat waves for prolonged periods can have a wide range of health effects particularly for individuals with chronic conditions like arthritis too.
Understanding the relationship between heat waves and arthritis is essential for developing effective strategies to manage and improve the quality of life for those affected.
Dr Krishna Subramanyam, Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon, Yashoda Hospitals Hyderabad told News9, “Heat waves are characterised by prolonged periods of excessive-high temperatures accompanied by humidity can lead to various health issues such as heat exhaustion, dehydration etc. Vulnerable populations including the elderly and those with chronic illnesses are particularly at risk during heat waves.”
Relation between Heat waves and arthritis is multifaceted, involving both direct and indirect effects.
Here’s how heat waves affect arthritis:
1. Dehydration: During heat waves, the body loses fluids more rapidly through sweat leading to
a decreased volume of synovial fluid which lubricates the joints. Reduced synovial fluid can increase
friction in joints, exacerbating pain and stiffness.
2. Inflammation: Heat causes blood vessels to expand, leading to increased blood flow and potentially
more inflammation in joints, especially in individuals with inflammatory arthritis causing more pain and
swelling.
3. Disrupted Sleep: High temperatures can interfere with sleep patterns leading to poor quality of sleep
and thereby fatigability, making it more challenging for patients with arthritis.
4. Reduce Physical activity: Disturbance in daily routines to avoid heat may lead to reduced physical
activity leading to joint stiffness, muscle weakness, further aggravating arthritis symptoms.
Managing Arthritis during heat waves
Given the potential for heat waves to worsen arthritis symptoms, it is crucial for individuals with Arthritis
to adopt strategies to manage their condition.
Precautionary measures to take:
– Stay Hydrated
– Stay in a Cool Environment
-Anti-inflammatory/ AntiOxidant infused diet
-Regular and gentle exercises
-Proper Sleep Pattern
-Medications and advice from the health professional
As climate change continues to increase the frequency and intensity of heat waves, Research
and public health initiatives are essential to support the population in managing their condition effectively
in the phase of these environmental challenges.
According to expert, heat waves are characterised by prolonged periods of excessive-high temperatures accompanied by humidity can lead to various health issues such as heat exhaustion, dehydration etc. Vulnerable populations including the elderly and those with chronic illnesses are particularly at risk during heat waves Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
