Qatar daily The Peninsula reported that people have been urged by the Hamad Medical Corporation to be cautious of heatstroke in Qatar especially with the temperatures rising and the summer season fast approaching.

Heatstroke is a condition which requires emergency treatment. People are also likely to get heat cramps and heat exhaustion, if exposed to the hot sun without a protection.

Though these conditions are not as serious as heat stroke, they can lead to heatstroke if they are not treated, said Dr Khalid Zahraldin Mohamed Esmail, Pediatric Pulmnology Consultant at HMC.

“Heat stroke is common during summer and is a medical emergency. If this happens one should call the ambulance. The main treatment of heatstroke involves cooling the body down,” he told media persons.

Heatstroke is a condition caused by your body overheating, usually as a result of prolonged exposure to or physical exertion in high temperatures, which needs immediate attention.

High body temperature, altered mental state or behaviour, change in sweating, nausea and vomiting, flushed skin, rapid breathing, racing heart rate and headache are symptoms of a heatstroke.

Dr Esmail also said that people should look out for symptoms of heat cramps or heat exhaustion. “Heat cramps cause painful muscle cramps. Heat exhaustion can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, or vomiting. It can also make you thirsty or tired.

If anybody present symptoms of heat cramps or heat exhaustion, they should cool the body down right away to avoid getting heatstroke,” he said.

“To cool the body down one can spray oneself with cool water and then sit in front of a fan; move into the shade, or go into an air-conditioned building or car; take a cool shower or bath; drink water or a sports drink. Take off any extra clothing; and put a cold pack or cool cloth on the neck or armpit,” he added.

Dr Esmail also insisted that children should not be left alone in a car or in an outdoor activity, during the hot weather.

“Children should always be accompanied by an adult and should wear less clothes. If the family observes something like fast breathing they should seek medical intervention. Children should always be kept hydrated,” he added.

How are you planning for the upcoming summer season in Doha? Are these heat stroke tips helpful for you? If yes, drop us a line in the comments and also, don't forget to like and share this article—it keeps us going!

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