DOHA: With a rise temperature, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has urged the public to start taking the necessary precautions against heat-related illnesses (HRI), such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
HRI occurs when a person’s body temperature rises above normal, due to prolonged exposure to heat in soaring temperatures, particularly as a result of high humidity and strenuous physical exercise.
Depending on the extent of the illness, which ranges from mild to extreme, an individual may experience symptoms like muscle pain, dizziness, nausea, sweating, light-headedness, and extreme fatigue.
The body’s inability to cope with the heat can result in mild HRIs such as heat cramps and episodes of fainting, but can also advance to more severe conditions, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Senior Consultant at Hamad General Hospital’s (HGH) Emergency Department (ED), Dr Saad Al Nuaimi, emphasised that in order to avert the adverse effects of heat and stay safe, individuals should take certain preventive measures in advance.
“The most important step is to keep track of weather forecasts and stay informed of any extreme heat alerts. This can help people plan their activities safely and avoid going outdoors when it’s too hot,” he said. “It’s important for people to know the symptoms of HRI, as it can enable them to take action quickly and seek emergency care,” he added.
“It is highly recommended that people increase their water intake and drink at least two to four cups of water every hour, while working or exercising outdoors, even when they are not thirsty. Individuals can also drink fruit or vegetable juices but should avoid consuming liquids that contain high amounts of sugar,” he said. As a defensive measure, people should also ensure they remain in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible and avoid direct sunlight exposure.
The Peninsula
