Pune: As temperatures soar this summer, hospitals across the city are reporting a surge in patients suffering from a wide range of ailments affecting the eyes, kidneys, and digestive system.As of May 7, Maharashtra has officially recorded 229 heatstroke cases and five fatalities.The combination of dry weather, dust, and intense UV rays is leading to a spike in eye-related complications. Dr. Yogesh Chougule, consultant cataract, cornea, and refractive surgeon at NIO Super Specialty Hospital, noted that heat significantly disrupts tear film stability.“Exposure to extreme heat causes increased tear evaporation and impaired production. We are seeing a rise in dry eye cases, particularly among athletes, children, and drivers,” Dr. Chougule said. The symptoms include burning sensations, frequent redness, itchiness, and blurred vision.To combat this, doctors recommend the “20-20-20 rule”: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce strain. Nutritional support also plays a role. “Foods rich in Vitamins A, C, and E, along with omega-3 fats, help protect the retina and maintain moisture. Carrots, rich in beta-carotene, and simple lemon-mint water are excellent for eye health and hydration,” he added.The gastrointestinal (GI) system faces unique physiological challenges in the heat. To cool the body, blood flow is often redirected from internal organs toward the skin, a process that can compromise the gut.Dr. Pramod Katare, consultant gastroenterologist at Noble Hospitals and Research Centre, said, “This relative reduction in blood flow to the organs (splanchnic hypoperfusion) can compromise the intestinal barrier, potentially leading to ‘leaky gut’ and systemic inflammation.”Furthermore, extreme heat alters gut microbiota and slows gastric emptying, leading to bloating and heaviness. “When the body is dehydrated, the colon absorbs more water from waste, significantly increasing the risk of chronic constipation. For those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), these fluctuations often trigger painful flare-ups,” Dr. Katare added. Warm weather also accelerates the growth of bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, making foodborne infections and “stomach flu” far more prevalent.Nephrologists are witnessing a sharp seasonal rise in patients presenting with dehydration-related renal stress and acute kidney injury.“We are observing severe weakness, reduced urine output, burning urination, and episodes of fainting,” said Dr Avinash Ignatius, senior nephrologist and transplant physician at Noble Hospitals. “Particularly vulnerable are the elderly, diabetics, outdoor workers, and those on diuretics. We are also seeing a rise in recurrent kidney stones because concentrated urine during dehydration promotes crystal formation.“Dialysis patients are also at heightened risk, reporting increased exhaustion and blood pressure drops (intradialytic hypotension) due to excessive fluid and electrolyte loss from heat exposure.Medical experts emphasize that extreme heat is a direct physiological stressor on the cardiovascular and renal systems. Preventive hydration, early symptom recognition, and avoiding outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours have become critical public health measures for residents across the region.
