Beat the heat
Extreme heat can lead to a myriad of heat-related illnesses—sunburn, prickly heat rashes, heat cramps, heat tetany, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, which can be fatal if untreated. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, consulting an internal medicine specialist in Ummalhassam can be crucial.
High-Risk Individuals:
- Children, elderly, and pregnant women
- Immunocompromised individuals
- Non-acclimatized workers and sportspersons exposed to extreme heat and humidity
- Individuals on cardiac and antipsychotic medications, decongestants, and antihistamines
- Consumption of alcohol, other illicit stimulants, and excess caffeine, which can increase the risk of dehydration
Symptoms:
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Excessive sweating and increased thirst
- Fainting, weakness, dizziness
- Dark-colored urine
- Change in mental state, confusion, rapid or slow heart rate, an increase in body temperature >40.5°C, and absent sweating, should prompt immediate medical help.
Prevention:
- Stay hydrated with water and electrolytes
- Avoid caffeine, sugary drinks, alcohol, and spicy, heavy meals
- Wear light-colored clothes, protective hats, and avoid sun exposure, especially during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm)
- Use sunscreen with SPF >15
- Do not leave pets or children in cars, which can be dangerous
Management:
In case of heat exhaustion or cramps:
- Stop all activities immediately
- Loosen clothing
- Move the person to a cooler place and cool them with showers and fans
- Apply ice packs to the neck, axilla, and groin
- Immediate fluid and electrolyte replacement
- If severe heat illness occurs, transport the person immediately to the hospital
For those in Ummalhassam, an internal medicine specialist can provide personalized advice and care to help manage and prevent heat-related conditions.
Dr. Hajira Begum
Internal Medicine Specialist
KIMSHEALTH Medical Center - Umm Al Hassam
