Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has issued an advisory cautioning the public to stay safe during the summer and avoid sunstroke and the related complications by not exposing themselves to extreme heat during the peak hot hours of the day.
“The risk of sunstroke increases with the rising temperature during the summer. This can be particularly high among the elderly, children and those with chronic medical conditions. People who work outdoors are at a high risk of sunstroke,” said Dr Aisha Ali al-Sada, Emergency Medicine specialist at HMC.
In a video message published on HMC’s social media platforms, Dr al-Sada noted that people have to be very careful about sunstroke and seek immediate medical attention if affected. The official pointed out that with the peak summer season already on, it is important for everyone to take necessary precautions against sunstroke and related health issues. The Ministry of Labour in Qatar has already suspended all outdoor work during peak hours during the peak summer months.
She explained: “Major symptoms of sunstroke include high body temperature, rapid heartbeat, confusion and loss of consciousness. If these symptoms occur, it is important for people to seek urgent medical attention at any of the emergency department facilities.”
The physician noted that HMC emergency department has all the facilities and resources to deal with any sunstroke-related incidents.
“We are well equipped to handle any such situations. HMC has well-trained medical teams and specialised protocols for managing sunstroke cases. Such cases are managed promptly and efficiently. These cases are treated through rapid body cooling, intravenous fluids, close monitoring of vital signs and immediate treatment of any associated complications,” she highlighted.
Dr al-Sada, however, differentiated between sunstroke and heat exhaustion, noting that the latter is less severe.
“Heat exhaustion is milder in nature and does not need any emergency medical attention. Symptoms of heat stress may include fatigue, dizziness, headache and nausea, which can be improved with rest, hydration and avoiding heat exposure.”
The official also pointed out that it is important that people avoid outdoor activities during the peak heat hours of the day and remain indoors as much as possible.
“During the summer, it is important to avoid outdoor activities at peak hot hours of the day. People must avoid outdoor activities during the peak heat hours of the day. We also advise parents or guardians to supervise children playing in outdoor areas as they can be easily affected by severe heat,” she added.
Government of Qatar has strictly put restrictions on work in open areas between 10am and 3.30pm from June 1 to September 15. This has been done annually in the country and is a major step by the government to prevent heat stress as part of national efforts to ensure a safe working environment and protect workers during the summer months.
The measure aims to safeguard the health and safety of workers exposed to high temperatures during the summer season. The government officials are also strictly monitoring that no outdoor work is carried out during the specified time.