As heatwave conditions intensify across several parts of the country, doctors are reporting a sharp rise in patients suffering from neurological and eye-related ailments linked to extreme temperatures, dehydration and prolonged sun exposure.

Health experts warned that soaring temperatures can disrupt the body’s internal balance, triggering fatigue, dizziness, severe headaches, migraines, heat exhaustion and, in some cases, serious neurological complications, particularly among children, senior citizens and people with pre-existing medical conditions.

Hospitals across Delhi-NCR are witnessing an increase in cases involving dehydration-induced headaches, eye irritation and heat-triggered neurological symptoms.

"The ongoing heatwave is beginning to show an impact beyond routine heat-related illnesses, with a noticeable increase in neurological complaints in our OPD," Dr Vinit Suri, Senior Consultant- Neurology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Delhi, said.

"We have seen nearly a 20 per cent increase in OPD patients over the past few days, with more people coming in with symptoms such as severe headaches, dizziness, disorientation, fainting episodes, worsening of existing neurological conditions, and especially migraine flare-ups," he said.

According to Dr Suri, extreme heat and prolonged exposure to bright sunlight can trigger migraines in susceptible individuals. He added that dehydration and heat stress can alter electrolyte balance and blood flow to the brain, putting pressure on the nervous system.

Doctors cautioned that symptoms such as persistent confusion, slurred speech, unusual drowsiness, seizures or loss of consciousness should not be ignored, as they may signal a neurological emergency requiring immediate medical attention.

Dr Sushma Sharma, Director, Neurology, at Marengo Asia Hospitals, said people suffering from migraine, epilepsy and other neurological disorders are especially vulnerable during periods of extreme heat, poor sleep and power cuts.

"During extreme summer heat, it is important to avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours whenever possible. If going outdoors is necessary, people should protect themselves by using umbrellas, sunglasses, and covering their heads. Staying hydrated is equally important because dehydration caused by excessive sweating can also lead to confusion and neurological complications," Dr Sharma said.

She advised people to consume natural electrolyte-rich drinks such as coconut water, buttermilk and fresh fruit juices to compensate for fluid loss caused by excessive sweating.

Eye infections, dryness rise during summer

Doctors also warned that eye health often gets neglected during summer despite the season increasing the risk of irritation, dryness and infections.

Dr Neeraj Sanduja, Director at Viaan Eye and Retina Centre, said excessive exposure to sunlight, hot winds, dust and dehydration can significantly affect eye health.

"Summer heat can affect eye health in several ways. Prolonged exposure to strong sunlight, hot winds, dust and dehydration can lead to dryness, irritation, redness and eye strain.

"Many people also experience burning sensation, itching or watery eyes during this season. We also get cases of dry eye syndrome, allergic conjunctivitis and corneal sunburns. Children and those spending long hours outdoors should be extra careful," Dr Sanduja said.

AC use, screen time worsening eye strain

Dr Namrata Sharma, professor at the Dr R P Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, Delhi, said prolonged exposure to air-conditioners and excessive screen time indoors are also contributing to eye-related problems during the summer season.

"Dry indoor air from air-conditioners, combined with prolonged mobile and laptop use, reduces natural tear production and worsens eye dryness. People often ignore early symptoms such as redness, blurry vision and irritation, which can gradually become more serious if left untreated," she said.

"We are seeing more cases of allergies, dry eye and infections which happen because of faster evaporation of tear film," she said.

She advised people to wear UV-protected goggles outdoors, wash their eyes with clean water after exposure to dust, avoid rubbing their eyes with unclean hands, use lubricating eye drops and stay adequately hydrated throughout the day.