Board Exams Begin Amid Rising Heat in Mumbai; Doctors Urge Students to Take Extra Health Precautions

Mumbai: As the Class 10 and Class 12 board examinations begin across Maharashtra, students in Mumbai are grappling with an additional challenge — an early and intense rise in temperatures. With summer setting in sooner than expected, doctors are raising concerns over the health risks faced by students travelling to examination centres during peak daytime heat.

Medical professionals across the city have reported a noticeable increase in cases of dehydration, heat exhaustion, headaches, dizziness, vomiting, and gastrointestinal infections over the past week. Experts say long commuting hours, overcrowded public transport, exam-related stress, and inadequate food and fluid intake are significantly worsening the situation for adolescents appearing for crucial examinations.

Dr Jinendra Jain, Internal Medicine Expert at Wockhardt Hospitals, warned that dehydration is emerging as a major concern during the ongoing heatwave.

“During extreme heat, the body loses fluids rapidly. Many students skip meals due to exam anxiety, which further increases the risk of dehydration. This can lead to fatigue, poor concentration, dizziness and even heat exhaustion. Students must stay well hydrated and avoid stepping out on an empty stomach,” he said.

Echoing similar concerns, Dr Chirag Shah, Physician and Internal Medicine Expert from Apex Group of Hospitals, said hospitals are witnessing a spike in heat-related ailments among young patients.

“We are seeing more cases of viral fever, stomach infections and dehydration. Students should strictly avoid outside junk food, maintain personal hygiene and ensure adequate sleep. Parents should watch out for warning signs such as persistent headaches, nausea, muscle cramps or unusual tiredness,” he advised.

Dr Shah further explained that even mild dehydration can significantly impact cognitive function.

“Lack of adequate fluids affects concentration, memory and exam performance. Students should sip water regularly, even if they don’t feel thirsty,” he added.

Health experts recommend that students carry water bottles to examination centres wherever permitted. Oral rehydration solutions, coconut water and homemade lemon water are advised to maintain electrolyte balance. Wearing loose, light-coloured cotton clothing and using umbrellas or caps while travelling can help reduce heat exposure.

Doctors have also urged schools and examination centres to ensure proper ventilation, availability of drinking water and shaded waiting areas to protect students from extreme heat conditions.

With board examinations being a critical milestone in students’ academic journeys, medical professionals stress that health must remain a top priority. Adequate hydration, balanced nutrition and sufficient rest can play a vital role in preventing heat-related illnesses and helping students remain focused and safe throughout the examination period.

Citizens are advised to seek prompt medical consultation if symptoms persist or worsen.