How to prevent sunstroke during Hajj?
Arabia Weather - Heatstroke, also known as sunstroke, is a serious health condition that poses a threat to pilgrims and Umrah pilgrims. This condition results from exposure to sunlight or any heat source for a long period, or engaging in physical activity in a hot atmosphere. These conditions apply to pilgrims, and include symptoms Heatstroke causes excessive sweating, nausea, and dizziness, and may lead to serious complications such as convulsions, damage to the kidneys and brain, and may lead to the death of the person.
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Places where thermal injuries are common during Hajj
The Saudi Ministry of Health indicates that places where thermal injuries - caused by heat - are common, include:
- Tawaf, especially at noon.
- Al Masaa, especially when there is severe crowding and high air temperatures.
- Arafat during the afternoon.
- Mina, in the places of slaughter and stones, because of the long distance and crowding when throwing stones.
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Ministry of Health guidelines for preventing sunstroke during Hajj
Experts provide a set of health tips and guidelines for pilgrims to prevent sunstroke:
- Drink sufficient amounts of fluids: It is recommended to drink water and juices regularly.
- Avoid direct exposure to sunlight for long periods: It is preferable to use sun umbrellas when needed, and it is preferable that the umbrella be of a light color.
- Avoid excessive physical stress: It is recommended to take sufficient rest after performing each ritual, to restore vitality to the body.
- Wear appropriate clothing: It is preferable to wear loose, light-colored clothing, and avoid heavy clothing.
Actions to be taken when feeling symptoms of heatstroke
When you feel symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, such as high temperature, headache, dizziness, nausea, extreme fatigue, thirst, and cramping of the abdominal muscles and legs, you should follow the following steps:
- Stay away from the sun: Find a cool, shaded place.
- Cooling the body: Spraying cold water on the body.
- Rest: Get enough rest.
- Take fever-reducing painkillers when needed
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Sources:
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