From bloating to diarrhoea: Delhi's heatwave triggers stomach illnesses
As Delhi swelters under a red alert with temperatures soaring up to 45 degrees Celsius, doctors are seeing many patients walk in with stomach-related complaints, from bloating and acidity to diarrhoea and nausea.Doctors have said that the intense heat can have grave effects on digestive health.While there is no direct link between heat and digestion problems, experts explain that the body's natural response to extreme heat may indirectly affect gut function.advertisement
"There's some effect of dehydration because of the high temperatures. There's a hypothesis of blood flow redirection. In hot weather, blood flow usually directs towards the skin for cooling. This reduces the blood flow in the digestive system, which could slow down digestion," said Dr. Manoj Gupta, Head of Liver Transplant & Surgical Gastroenterology at PSRI Hospital.HOW SUMMER HEAT AFFECTS THE GUTThe human digestive system relies on sufficient blood flow and optimal enzyme activity to break down food efficiently.
While there is no direct link between heat and digestion problems, experts explain that the body's natural response to extreme heat may indirectly affect gut function. ()
advertisementDuring high temperatures, however, the body prioritises thermoregulation - diverting blood towards the skin to help release heat through sweating.This redirection results in sluggish digestion, leading to symptoms like heaviness in the abdomen, reduced appetite, acid reflux, and indigestion.'Digestive enzyme activity also gets reduced due to high temperatures. This pattern is seen every year during heatwaves," Dr. Gupta explained.Dr. Sudeep Khanna, gastroenterologist and liver specialist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, said, "We're seeing two broad patterns of patients right now. Many of my patients already have gut-brain axis disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia, often triggered by stress or certain foods such as red meat and some legumes. On the other hand, several patients are coming in with heat-related gastrointestinal issues, primarily due to dehydration."Another significant factor is dehydration, which becomes common as people sweat more during extreme heat. When the body is dehydrated, the production of saliva and gastric juices slows down, complicating digestion.
During high temperatures, however, the body prioritises thermoregulation - diverting blood towards the skin to help release heat through sweating. ()
Constipation and cramps are common complaints, especially among the elderly and those who aren't maintaining adequate fluid intake.Besides this, the increased consumption of cold beverages, street food, and raw salads during this season, often without proper hygiene, can raise the risk of food-borne illnesses, diarrhoea, and infections."Bacterial infections from consuming stale food, cut fruits exposed to the air, or contaminated water and milk are being seen. With various viral infections circulating, including Covid-19, we are observing cases of diarrhoea, although they don't always present with classical symptoms," said Dr. Khanna.WHAT ABOUT COVID-19?Some gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms such as diarrhoea, nausea, and abdominal discomfort were commonly seen in Covid-19 patients during earlier waves.However, Dr. Gupta pointed out that while Covid-related GI symptoms were a concern in the past, they are not predominant now.
Some gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms such as diarrhoea, nausea, and abdominal discomfort were commonly seen in Covid-19 patients during earlier waves. ()
advertisement"We did see Covid-19-related GI problems, but right now it's not very prevalent. Even though not all people are getting tested and only patients with severe infections are getting routine tests for Covid-19, right now it's difficult to say whether GI problems are because of Covid-19," he said.KEEP DIGESTIVE ISSUES AT BAYTo prevent digestive problems during the ongoing heatwave, doctors advise a few simple but effective precautions:Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, coconut water, or homemade electrolyte drinks. Avoid caffeinated or sugary sodas that can worsen dehydration.Eat light and fresh: Opt for freshly cooked meals that are easy on the stomach like khichdi, curd rice, boiled vegetables, and fruits with high water content like watermelon and cucumber.Avoid oily and spicy foods: These can aggravate acidity and indigestion during hot weather.Maintain hygiene: Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and be cautious about food consumed outside the home.Listen to your body: If your appetite is low, don't force heavy meals. Small, frequent meals may help.'Diet, hydration, and overall health all play a role. We see this pattern every year. Staying mindful can prevent complications,' Dr. Gupta said.Trending Reel
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