The relentlessly rising severe heat in Rajasthan is becoming a growing cause for concern among diabetic patients. Dr. Raunak Gandhi, a diabetologist practicing at the Mathura Das Mathur Hospital in Jodhpur, explained that patients whose diabetes remains uncontrolled face the highest risk of fluid depletion from their bodies. He noted that when blood sugar levels rise, excess water is expelled from the body along with glucose through urination; this exacerbates the problem of dehydration, a condition made even more severe by the intense heat. Consequently, patients should drink adequate amounts of water regularly and must never ignore the signals of thirst.

He further explained that certain diabetes medications—specifically those belonging to the "gliflozin" class, such as Dapagliflozin and Empagliflozin—are beneficial for heart and kidney health in addition to controlling blood sugar. However, by increasing urine output, these medications can also heighten the risk of fluid depletion within the body. Therefore, during the summer season, diabetic patients are advised to exercise extra caution, avoid direct sunlight, consume light meals, and monitor their blood sugar levels regularly.

**Protection Against Issues Like Heatstroke**
Dr. Raunak Gandhi advised diabetic patients not to wait until they feel thirsty, but rather to drink water at regular intervals. One should never ignore the signals the body sends when it requires hydration. Consuming a sufficient amount of water can effectively prevent complications such as dehydration and heatstroke.

**Patients Need to Be Extra Vigilant During Summer**
He also pointed out that certain diabetes medications—particularly SGLT-2 inhibitors—increase the volume of urine produced by the body. While drugs like Dapagliflozin and Empagliflozin are beneficial for blood sugar control, as well as for heart and kidney health, they can lead to increased fluid loss within the body. Therefore, patients taking these medications need to exercise heightened vigilance during the summer months.

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