Study of Epidemiological Determinants of Patients Presented with “Heat Wave Related Illness” Admitted in Tertiary Care Center

Abstract

Context: Heat related illnesses (HRI) though preventable are in- creasing worldwide. People living in developing countries like In- dia are at greater risk. The study was conducted to find out epi- demiological determinants of patients admitted with Heat related illness and to study prognostic variables and factors affecting mor- tality Methods: This is a prospective study of adult patients admitted at our institute with HRI during months of May and June. (average max. temp. > 40 degree Celsius). Sociodemographic profile, work- ing environment information, co- morbid conditions, clinical as- pects and bio chemical parameters were studied. Results: Relatively young male patients working outdoor without personal protective measures for long duration were affected the most. Significantly low level of education and lack of personal pro- tective measures were important contributors. Giddiness was most common symptom followed by Fever and Headache. Hypoten- sion, tachycardia and low GCS score were associated with HRI mortality. Hypertension, Diabetes and past CV Stroke were most common associated co morbidities. Conclusions: HRI are at rising trend, especially in developing countries. More aggressive and multifactorial approaches are re- quired for public awareness. Mandatory use of protective measures at workplace and timely hospitalization is the key to prevent HRI and its mortality.

Keywords

• Heat stroke
• Heat exhaustion
• HRI mortality