40 are treated for ailments linked to dust at emergency

About 40 patients have been treated at Hamad General Hospital’s  Emergency Department over the last two days (Friday and Saturday)  for ailments related to dusty weather in the country,  an official said yesterday.Emergency physician Dr Ankush Pathare said that cases are expected to increase.Meanwhile, the Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has advised residents to take basic health and safety precautions as dust storms lash the country. Dust storms, which herald the transition to summer in Qatar, pose health hazards such as sinus allergies and respiratory infections. Dust consists of tiny solid particles floating in the air, which can get past the lungs’ natural defenses and harm sensitive lung tissue. Fine particles of dust can irritate the lungs and trigger allergic reactions or asthma attacks, and prolonged exposure to airborne dust can cause chronic breathing and lung problems, as well as heart disease.Pathare advises taking the following precautions during dust storms:- Avoid going outside, especially during high winds or low visibility when the dust levels are particularly harmful. If unavoidable, spend as little time outside as possible, and avoid doing outdoor exercise. Keep your windows and doors closed.- Cover your nose and mouth with a mask or damp cloth to reduce inhalation of particles of dust when going out.- When driving, keep the car’s windows closed, and opt for air conditioning instead of fresh air.- Avoid rubbing your eyes in order to prevent eye infection, which is common during this season. Wear protective gear such as airtight goggles. If your eyes become irritated, rinse with water. Be especially careful if you wear contact lenses.- During hot weather, always carry a supply of water to keep from being dehydrated.- People who are prone to bad allergies should start using their antihistamines during this season, even before the symptoms start.“People at high risk of contracting respiratory infection include infants and young children, the elderly, people with a history of asthma, bronchitis, emphysema or other respiratory conditions, people with heart disease, pregnant women, and people who have to work outdoors, such as construction or delivery workers,” he said adding that those with chronic conditions should see their doctors as soon as possible if an infection occurs. Pathare said those who show symptoms of allergies such as watering eyes, cough, wheezing or asthma can go to their Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs). “Those who have severe trouble breathing, or start coughing green sputum, might have a lung infection and should go to the Emergency Department,” he added. To prevent vehicular accidents due to decreased visibility during dust storms, motorists are cautioned to drive slowly and to pull over when there is low visibility, particularly when driving in open areas, and to use hazard lights when needed. People living away from the city, where there is no structure or building to break down the dust and reflect the sunlight, are advised to avoid going out unless absolutely necessary.