Local doctor explains heat stroke risks

In 2017, nearly 45 children died from heat stroke across the nation.

For that reason, doctors encourage parents to be mindful of the time children spend outdoors this summer.

According to Dr. Rajni Boparai, a Family Resident at Yuma Regional Medical Center, the desert’s heat might pose greater risks than one might imagine.

“It’s very easy to think, ‘Oh I just feel overheated,'” Boparai said. “Heat stroke is a lot more serious, so people tend to feel really bad.”

According to Dr. Boparai, children are most vulnerable to the illness that often leads to fatalities.

“Your age is one of the predisposing factors,” Dr. Boparai said. “Being young, children, infants [also] the elderly.”

Moreover, Dr. Boparai said heat stroke ban quickly go into effect.

For that reason, Dr. Boparai said parents should limit playtime to the cooler hours of the day.

“I would advise if you’re going to go out and have fun,” Dr. Boparai. “Do it at the beginning [or] at the end of the day.”