Sun, Sand, and Health Risks: How Climate Change Shifts the Landscape.
Living in the UAE, we're all familiar with the sun-soaked days and the beauty of our desert landscape. But what if I told you climate change is throwing a wrench into this postcard-perfect picture, potentially impacting our health?
It's not all doom and gloom, but awareness is key. Here's why:
Heatstroke and Dehydration: When Summer Turns Savage
Imagine this: temperatures soar even higher, turning those usual summer days into a struggle for your body. This is the reality of a warming climate. Heatstroke and dehydration become more likely, especially for our most vulnerable friends and family – children, older adults, and those with chronic health issues.
Symptoms to watch out for (and not to miss!): Feeling like your brain is melting? That's a red flag! Be on the lookout for headaches, dizziness, confusion, and excessive sweating (or lack of sweat, which is even worse). Nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, and body temperatures over 104°F are all signs you need to cool down quickly.
What to do next: Knowledge is your shield! Check weather forecasts and heat advisories (https://mobile.ncm.gov.ae/maps-weather-forecast?lang=en). Drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty. Think loose, breathable clothing and avoid midday activities when the sun reigns supreme. Cool showers and checking on at-risk neighbors are superhero moves in this heatwave battle.
Dust and Asthma: Don't Let Your Lungs Take the Hit
Dust storms and air pollution, unwelcome guests brought on by climate change, can worsen allergies, trigger asthma attacks, and make breathing a chore.
Feeling the Squeeze? Wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath – these are all signs your respiratory system is under attack. Sore throat, itchy eyes, and sleepless nights due to coughing add to the discomfort.
Breathe Easy Tips: Limit outdoor activity when dust storms rage and air quality dips. Invest in an air purifier for your home, especially if you have respiratory conditions. Stay informed about air quality forecasts using the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment website (https://www.moccae.gov.ae/) and consider using an N95 mask for dust emergencies.
Water Woes: When H2O Goes Rogue
Changes in rainfall patterns can affect water quality. Combine that with rising temperatures, and you have a recipe for an increased risk of waterborne diseases like cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea.
Safeguard Your Gut: Stick to bottled or boiled water, especially when travelling. Wash your hands religiously, and remember to wash those fruits and veggies before enjoying them. Be cautious with untreated water sources and prioritise good hygiene practices.
Mozzies on the Move: Dengue Fever and Beyond
Climate change can disrupt the natural world, potentially pushing mosquitoes into new territories. This increases the risk of vector-borne diseases like Dengue Fever, which can bring flu-like symptoms, nasty headaches, and uncomfortable rashes.
Fight the Bite: Pack insect repellent with DEET or picaridin (it typically means to include an insect repellent that contains either DEET or picaridin in your travel or outdoor gear) DEET (N, N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide) and picaridin (also known as icaridin) are active ingredients in many insect repellents and are known for their effectiveness at repelling various types of insects, including mosquitoes and ticks). when you head outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Long sleeves and pants become your amour, and eliminating mosquito breeding grounds around your home is a strategic move.
Remember, we're all in this together! We can protect ourselves and our loved ones by understanding these health risks, exploring ways to combat these challenges and building a healthier, more resilient UAE in the face of climate change.
Any questions for our specialist or about this blog email us- at myprime@primehealth.ae
Sources:
Book Your Appointment