Context: Heat related illnesses (HRI) though preventable are increasing worldwide. People living in developing countries like India 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, working environment information, co- morbid conditions, clinical aspects 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. Hypotension, 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.
Key words: Heat stroke,Heat exhaustion, HRI mortality
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