• Published on: Apr 04, 2020
  • 1 minute read
  • By: Raj Dwivedi

Good News Around Corona Virus On Friday Everyone Missed!

  • WhatsApp share link icon
  • copy & share link icon
  • twitter share link icon
  • facebook share link icon

· On Friday FDA announced an emergency authorization of a Roche Holding AG test that can screen patients much faster than all existing options.

· The biggest impact of these tests would be that it would help catch up on the all the tests which are on queue currently.

· What very few have realized that our inability to test enough people fast enough has led to an outbreak that is likely to spin out of control in the weeks to come. If that happens then we won’t be able to contain things any time soon.

· More than lab tests we need “serologic tests” and “on-site diagnostics” which can play a crucial role in helping to better estimate the size of the problem (outbreak) and exercise necessary control to prevent the spread.

· Serologic diagnostics allow extensive testing of samples from people who aren’t confirmed COVID-19 cases.

· The best thing is that If people have been exposed and have developed antibodies against the virus, such tests will let health officials in frontline know much faster.

· This is invaluable information in the fight against a disease that is mild or asymptomatic in many people.

· It will bring some key KPIs to limelight in addition to giving a better sense of how many cases we’re missing and COVID-19’s true fatality rate, it could also identify areas where it is spreading more quietly and help direct needed response.

· Centres for Disease Control Director Robert Redfield recently told a Congressional committee that his agency has two tests of this type in development.

· This fast deployment is critical piece around the globe as there simply isn’t any reliable information on where we stand at any time and where the disease is and how many people have it.

· Another important step would involve moving testing capabilities out of the lab and into doctors’ offices.

· Ideally, providers should be able to order and run tests rapidly on site similar to the flu instead of sending them off to an overtaxed lab and lowering risk of infection

· An accurate and quick test of this type would mean that fewer people are left hanging in limbo about their actual infection status, expediting isolation, monitoring, and treatment efforts.

· People could be diagnosed in a far broader array of settings, lowering the risk of further spread of infection and keeping them out of hospitals that could spend more of their time totally focused to severe cases.

· A wider range of diagnostics would enable more targeted monitoring and reduce the need for blanket travel bans and other economically harmful containment measures. We hope that all support would get these tests approved and distributed quickly.

So in summary the approach is in a good direction and agility around diagnosis will get us ahead of things while we’re still only in the early stages of this outbreak.

Read Blog
Excessive

Heat Exhaustion Warning Signs: Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Heat-related illnesses are common during hot weather, particularly in tropical countries like India where summer temperatures can become extreme. Heat exhaustion is a serious condition that occurs when the body overheats due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures and inadequate hydration.

Recognizing heat exhaustion warning signs early can prevent life-threatening complications such as heatstroke.

 

What Is Heat Exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion is a heat-related illness caused by:

  • Excessive heat exposure
     

  • Dehydration
     

  • Loss of electrolytes through sweating
     

It often occurs during outdoor work, exercise or travel in hot environments.

If untreated, it may progress to heatstroke — a medical emergency.

 

Common Heat Exhaustion Warning Signs

1. Heavy Sweating

Excessive sweating is one of the earliest signs.

The body attempts to cool itself through perspiration, leading to fluid loss.

2. Dizziness or Lightheadedness

Low blood pressure due to dehydration may cause:

  • Feeling faint
     

  • Blurred vision
     

  • Weakness
     

 

3. Fatigue and Weakness

Muscle weakness and exhaustion occur as the body struggles to regulate temperature.

 

4. Nausea and Vomiting

Digestive discomfort is common in heat-related illnesses.

 

5. Headache

Dehydration and heat stress can trigger throbbing headaches.

 

6. Muscle Cramps

Electrolyte imbalance may cause painful muscle cramps, especially in legs.

 

7. Rapid Heartbeat

Increased heart rate helps circulate blood for cooling but may indicate strain.

 

8. Cool, Clammy Skin

Despite hot weather, skin may feel cool and moist due to heavy sweating.

 

Who Is at Higher Risk?

Certain groups are more vulnerable:

  • Outdoor laborers
     

  • Athletes
     

  • Elderly individuals
     

  • Children
     

  • People with chronic illnesses
     

  • Individuals on certain medications
     

Urban heat exposure increases risk during peak summer months in India.

 

Heat Exhaustion vs Heatstroke

Heat exhaustion is serious but manageable if treated promptly.

Heatstroke symptoms include:

  • High body temperature (above 40°C)
     

  • Confusion or disorientation
     

  • Dry, hot skin
     

  • Seizures
     

  • Loss of consciousness
     

Heatstroke requires immediate emergency medical attention.

 

Immediate Steps to Take

If heat exhaustion is suspected:

  1. Move to a cool, shaded area
     

  2. Loosen tight clothing
     

  3. Drink water or oral rehydration solution
     

  4. Apply cool cloths to body
     

  5. Rest until symptoms improve
     

Seek medical care if symptoms persist beyond one hour.

 

Prevention Tips

Stay Hydrated

Drink water regularly, even if not thirsty.

 

Avoid Peak Sun Hours

Limit outdoor activity between 12 PM and 4 PM.

 

Wear Light Clothing

Choose loose, breathable fabrics.

 

Use Sun Protection

Wear hats and sunglasses when outdoors.

 

Take Frequent Breaks

Rest in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

 

Maintain Electrolyte Balance

Use oral rehydration solutions if sweating heavily.

 

Heat Illness in the Indian Context

India frequently experiences heatwaves, especially in northern and central regions. Public awareness about hydration and heat safety is essential to reduce hospitalizations and fatalities.

Community-level education can significantly improve prevention.

 

When to Seek Medical Help

Immediate medical attention is required if:

  • Symptoms worsen
     

  • Body temperature rises significantly
     

  • Confusion develops
     

  • Fainting occurs
     

  • Vomiting persists
     

Early treatment prevents severe complications.

 

Conclusion

Heat exhaustion is a preventable but potentially dangerous condition. Recognizing warning signs such as heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea and muscle cramps allows timely intervention.

With rising summer temperatures, especially in India, proactive hydration and heat safety measures are essential. Preventive care and awareness can protect vulnerable individuals and reduce health risks.

Staying cool and hydrated is the simplest way to safeguard your health during hot weather.

 

References

  • Indian Meteorological Department – Heatwave Reports

  • World Health Organization – Heat-Related Illness Guidelines

  • Indian Council of Medical Research – Public Health Advisory

  • National Disaster Management Authority (India) – Heatwave Action Plan

  • Lancet Planetary Health – Climate and Health Research

 

See all

Live Doctor consultation
Live Doctor Chat

Download Our App & Get Consultation from anywhere.

App Download
call icon for mobile number calling and whatsapp at secondmedic