Tuesday 16 / April / 2024
Muscat: The Ministry of Health (MOH) published guidelines to prevent heat injuries.
A statement issued online by the MOH said: "Wear light clothing keeping the head covered, avoid overeating at meals and use sunscreen before going out to prevent heat injuries. In addition drink sufficient amounts of water and fluidsband avoid working or playing under direct sunlight to protect yourself."
The injuries caused by heat can include:
Thermal stress: A severe injury that requires urgent medical treatment. It can happen as a result of exposure to extreme heat over a long period of time that may take several days, especially when associated with drought.
Heat cramps: Muscle cramps most often occur in the abdomen and arms due to the loss of a large amount of salt and water in the body. It may also occur due to prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Sunstroke is the most serious condition caused by intense heat and requires urgent medical treatment. It occurs when the body cannot regulate its temperature.
"The most vulnerable to injury are the elderly, children and overweight people and those with chronic diseases. Also pregnant women and those who work in hot and closed places without air conditioning are at risk of injury," the statement added.
