Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) Senior Consultant Dr Muayad Kassim Khalid is asking members of the public who will fast during Ramadan to be aware of the warning signs of dehydration, heat exhaustion and other forms of heat-related illness.
While mild to moderate dehydration can normally be reversed by drinking more fluids, he said that severe cases of dehydration and heat-related illnesses are medical emergencies and require immediate treatment.
Thirst and exhaustion can be expected as a result of fasting during Ramadan especially when the holy month falls during the hot months, and these conditions can worsen and lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion and even heat stroke.
Signs
Dr Khalid said that the first signs of heat-related illness typically include skin redness and warmth, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, muscles cramps, difficulty breathing, and a racing heart rate. If left untreated, heat cramps or heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke, which is the most serious heat-related illness. This can be fatal.
During Ramadan, people abstain from drinking and eating for a long period of time and dehydration can occur. However, the risk of dehydration is heightened when you add factors that can increase water loss, such as exposure to hot weather and excessive sweating.
Prolonged exposure to a hot environment and increased physical activity can then cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion and if those conditions continue, this can lead to heatstroke. People with heat exhaustion will often not realise the severity of their condition and may just complain of discomfort and uneasiness.
They may experience excessive sweating, a throbbing headache and dizziness – all of which are a result of the body’s temperature rising rapidly and the sweating mechanism failing. Essentially, the body loses its ability to cool down. Heatstroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency medical treatment is not received.
At-risk individuals
Individuals most at risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses during Ramadan include those with chronic illnesses including diabetes and kidney diseases, those over 65 years old, patients with heart disease, and those taking multiple medications such as diuretics, which increase the production of urine.
Dr Khalid said that individuals with chronic illnesses should consult their doctor before they start fasting because they can experience more severe complications if they suffer dehydration.
Individuals who work outdoors during daylight hours, or who work in very warm or less-ventilated environments, such as factories, kitchens, or bakeries, are also more susceptible to dehydration. However, Dr Khalid says restrictions and regulations around Ramadan working hours are designed to help prevent those who fall into this category from the risks of heat-related illnesses.
In case of heat stroke, it’s important to get immediate medical attention. If the affected person is conscious, they should be made to drink fluids, such as water or any cold drink. If the person is unconscious, use cool water (not cold) by applying a wet flannel or face cloth to the skin. The affected person should be exposed to a fan or an air stream to help lower their body temperature.
Individuals with low fitness level and those who experienced a heat illness in the past are also at increased risk of dehydration. According to Dr Khalid, the first line of defence in treating dehydration is staying hydrated. He recommends consuming ample amounts of fluids during non-fasting hours. He added that people should strive to drink three litres of water between Iftar and Suhoor.
He also advised fasting individuals to try to stay indoors and avoid direct exposure to sunlight and humidity. Those working outdoors are advised to rest when the weather is hottest or to work in a shaded area when possible. Meanwhile, individuals who enjoy sports are encouraged to exercise during the evening or indoors.
RELATED LINKS:
More Ramadan-related information available here.
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