Do not ignore signs of extreme heat and breathing difficulties; your lungs could be affected

Rohtak, June 16, 2026: Rising temperatures during the scorching heat are becoming a serious health challenge. While heat waves are typically associated with dehydration, fatigue, or heat exhaustion, extreme heat can also significantly impact the lungs and respiratory system. Prolonged exposure to intense heat can lead to severe issues such as breathing difficulties, dizziness, extreme exhaustion, and heatstroke.

The risk is particularly high for children, the elderly, outdoor workers, and patients suffering from conditions like asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). As temperatures rise, the body works harder to regulate its internal temperature. Sweating and increased blood circulation are natural bodily responses, but they also raise the body's oxygen demand. Consequently, breathing quickens, and many people may experience difficulty breathing. High humidity complicates the situation further, as sweat does not evaporate easily, preventing the body from cooling down effectively.

Respiratory specialist Dr. Sunny Kalra noted that ozone and smog levels also rise during summer, especially in urban areas. These pollutants place additional strain on the lungs and can aggravate issues such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Asthma patients often experience more severe symptoms during hot and humid weather because their airways are more sensitive to environmental changes.

He emphasized that certain warning signs during the summer season should never be ignored. Immediate medical advice should be sought if a person experiences severe shortness of breath, persistent wheezing, chest tightness, difficulty speaking due to breathlessness, bluish discoloration of the lips or fingers, a persistent cough, dizziness, confusion, or extreme weakness.

Sharing some simple precautions to keep lungs healthy during summer, he advised staying indoors during the hottest parts of the day, monitoring air quality updates, and limiting outdoor activities when pollution levels rise. Keep homes and workplaces cool and well-ventilated, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous physical activity in direct sunlight. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing, and ensure that patients with asthma or COPD continue taking their medications regularly. If possible, use air conditioners or humidifiers to control indoor humidity levels.