Health specialists have called for precautions against the ongoing heatwave and urged not to fall prey to any health risk due to the heat conditions.
The Met Office has warned of soaring temperatures that can touch 50 degrees, with the chances of a high heatwave.
“Unlike other years, temperatures this year are soaring fast. It calls for precautions against heat stroke’’, said Dr Mahmoud al Rahbi, Head of Emergencies at Al Nahda Hospital.
One needs to take precautions to avoid heat exhaustion, as the heatwave affects everyone adversely.
“One should avoid going out during peak heat time between 12 noon and 4 pm and venture out only if it’s essential. Make sure you cover your head and face, have ample water and fluids and keep on sipping on fluids at regular intervals’’, says Dr Dilip Singhvi, Specialist, Internal Medicine at Apollo Hospital.
Blue-collar workers should rest in the shade during peak hours, work on either side hours and maintain good hydration.
They should try to avoid taking heavy meals or fatty meals; instead, grab light food, fruits like watermelon and in case one has symptoms like body aches, dizziness, tiredness, shivering, fever or loose motion, should consult a doctor immediately as timely intervention can prevent further loss of water and electrolytes from the body and hasten recovery, according to Dr Singhvi.
Heat Stroke
Heat-related illnesses can present with symptoms such as fatigue, heat rash, cramps, syncope and without intervention, can progress to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Children, the elderly, patients with chronic diseases, outdoor workers and athletes are more vulnerable to heat-related illness.
“Those with heat cramps should drink water and have a snack or a drink that replaces carbohydrates every 15 to 20 minutes. They should avoid salt tablets and get medical help if symptoms persist or other comorbidities are present’’, adds Dr Safdar Basher, Specialist — Family Physician at Modern Al Salama Polyclinic.
