stroke in the holy sites
Consultant Family Medicine and Allergy, Dr. Khaled Obaid Bawaked, advised the guests of Rahman, pilgrims from home and abroad, who will perform the Hajj this year, to follow health tips to avoid any health problems such as heat stress and heat stroke in the holy sites.
He told "Okaz" that there are 7 important tips that pilgrims must follow in the holy sites, which are: First: Use the "sunshade" to protect the head, avoid standing in the sun for long periods, and be in shaded places as much as possible, Second: Cover the head to prevent Exposure to heat stroke, washing the face with water every hour or two, third: Drinking fluids well, such as water and fresh juices, and avoiding sweetened juices, caffeinated drinks and soft drinks.
He added that the fourth advice is to wear sunglasses to protect and protect the eyes from ultraviolet rays, Fifth: In the event of nausea, vomiting, headache, severe weakness and inability to stand, it is preferable to go to the nearest health center to take the necessary treatment, Sixth: Use creams that protect the thighs from the effects of Skin friction, as a result of long and continuous walking. Seventh: Make sure to eat short, non-fatty meals from time to time to avoid feeling hungry, preferably light sandwiches, dairy products and other products that do not strain the stomach.
He pointed out that in light of the high weather temperatures, and intense exposure to sunlight for long periods, the chances of developing sunstroke increase. In the event that these symptoms persist for a period of more than 30 minutes, care must be taken because it may indicate that the person has sunstroke, and the person must be treated with caution to avoid any health complications.
Bawaked added that the most important symptoms that a person may appear when suffering from heatstroke - God forbid - are headaches, dizziness, inability to focus, loss of appetite, feeling and wanting nausea, excessive sweating, pallor of the skin, stomach cramps, trembling In the arms and legs, rapid breathing, increased pulse, high body temperature, feeling very thirsty, and the desire to sleep.
Dr. Bawaked concluded by saying, that it is not permissible to deal with heat stroke slowly, as a number of first aid must be expedited to ensure the safety of the injured until he is presented to the specialist doctor, and among these aids, the person with heat stroke is transferred to a place with less heat quickly, taking off the injured’s clothes To cool his body, the casualty should lie on his back with the head and shoulders slightly raised from the level of the body. If the patient is conscious, give cooled water to reduce body temperature, with the need to avoid drinking stimulants and hot drinks. Wiping all parts of his body with cold water with a cotton or sponge dipped in water, and then the necessity of transporting the injured to the hospital or the nearest health center in the Holy Sites to follow up on his condition, taking into account the air conditioning with cold air during the transportation process.
