DOHA: The Emergency Department at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has treated 48 cases of heat exhaustion, according to a senior official.
The cases of heat exhaustion were treated between May 24 and June 1, said Dr Dr Warda Al Saad, Chief Consultant, Emergency Department, HMC.
In May 2013 about 40 cases were treated for heat exhaustion.
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body’s temperature control system fails due to exposure to high temperatures (eg above 35 degrees ) and humidity.
Earlier, HMC advised residents to take important precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.
People, especially those working outside, should drink plenty of water, take regular breaks and try to find shade wherever possible.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include cramps, fatigue, weakness, headache, dizziness, nausea, and occasionally vomiting, but usually consciousness is retained.
A person suffering from heat exhaustion should be immediately moved to a cooler area, his clothes should be removed or loosened and a cool shower should be given, if possible. Plenty of cool drinks and some salty snacks, too, should be given.
People having mild heat exhaustion are advised to go to a Primary Health Centres, while those with symptoms such as drowsiness or loss of consciousness need to be taken to the Emergency Department. People who have symptoms of heat exhaustion for more than an hour after first aid, or where the person has illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension or obesity, should also be taken to the Emergency Department.
HMC has advised people to follow the necessary precautions to ensure they remain unaffected by dust storms during the summer months.
Infants, children, teenagers, the elderly, pregnant women, and those who have to work outdoors, such as construction or delivery workers, are considered at high risk of contracting respiratory infection.
Such people are advised to limit exposure to the dust by using protective covering over the nose and mouth.
The Peninsula
