Abu Dhabi/Dubai: With summer temperatures climbing rapidly across the UAE, health professionals are warning community members about the dangers of extreme heat, especially for vulnerable groups such as outdoor workers, the elderly, children, and those with chronic medical conditions.
Doctors are seeing an uptick in cases of heat-related illnesses, ranging from mild discomforts like prickly heat and muscle cramps to more serious conditions such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.
“Heat-related problems are particularly common among blue-collar workers, especially those at construction sites,” said Dr Baiju Faizal, Consultant in Internal Medicine at Lifecare Hospital in Abu Dhabi’s industrial area of Musaffah. “People with pre-existing health conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, cardiac diseases, and chronic kidney disease are especially vulnerable to heat-related illness.”
Understanding heat illnesses
In the past few days, temperatures in the country have breached the 47-degree Celsius mark. As the mercury continues to rise, health risks to be concerned about include heat exhaustion characterised by symptoms like dizziness, heavy sweating, and cramps, caused by excessive loss of body fluids and electrolytes. If not managed, it can progress to heatstroke, a life-threatening condition marked by confusion, fainting, and an absence of sweating despite hot, red skin.
“Health risks during extreme heat include heat exhaustion and heatstroke – a medical emergency,” warned Dr Shyam Rajamohan, Specialist in Internal Medicine at Prime Hospital, Dubai.
“It can lead to severe complications, including damage to the brain, heart and kidneys.”
Other risks include dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, sunburn and skin damage, worsening of respiratory and heart conditions, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.
First aid and treatment
Dr Faizal noted that while treatment varies according to severity, immediate first aid and measures must be taken.
“Moving the affected person to a cool or shaded area, sprinkling cold water or applying wet cloths, encouraging fluid intake only if the person is conscious, are among the immediate steps. If symptoms persist or worsen, emergency medical help must be sought.”
Dr Faizal underlined that excessive dehydration and high body temperature can impair all vital organs.
“Timely intervention is critical,” he added.
Who is most at risk?
Construction and outdoor labourers
Elderly individuals
Children and infants
People with diabetes, heart or lung disease
Pregnant women
10 preventive measures
Drink plenty of water regularly
Monitor urine colour as a hydration indicator
Wear light, breathable clothing
Opt for wide-brimmed hats
Limit outdoor activity between noon and 4pm
Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30
Eat water-rich fruits and vegetables
Avoid caffeine and alcohol
Know the signs of heat stress
Do regular health check-ups
