Summer health risks: Tips for preventing poisoning and sunburn
With the arrival of the warmer months, the need for awareness about the dangers of summer , which can negatively impact public health, increases. In this context, Dr. Fawaz Al-Hawzani, an internal medicine specialist, warned of the rise in health problems associated with high temperatures, emphasizing that this increase directly contributes to the spread of several diseases and health complications, most notably food poisoning, skin diseases, and eye infections that require continuous care and prevention.
Climate change and increasing health challenges in the summer
Historically, summer has always been associated with certain seasonal health challenges. However, recent years have witnessed a significant escalation in the severity of these risks due to global climate change and record-breaking temperatures, particularly in the Arabian Gulf region. This continuous rise in temperatures creates an ideal environment for the rapid proliferation of bacteria and germs, leading to a doubling of food poisoning and skin infections compared to previous decades. This makes health awareness an urgent necessity to protect the community both locally and regionally.
Food poisoning: The biggest summer risks and how to avoid them
Dr. Al-Hawzani explained that food poisoning is one of the most common illnesses during the hot summer months. E. coli bacteria are among the most prevalent types of bacteria found in various types of meat, especially undercooked meat. Symptoms of food poisoning vary depending on the severity of the case and include vomiting, dizziness, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. In severe cases, symptoms may progress to a high fever, repeated vomiting, and blood in the stool, requiring immediate medical attention.
Certain groups are more susceptible to complications from poisoning, such as pregnant women, children, infants, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
Methods of prevention and food preservation in hot weather
Prevention is the first line of defense against these risks. This includes adhering to personal hygiene practices, such as washing hands thoroughly before and after preparing food, avoiding mixing raw and cooked foods, and not leaving food out of the refrigerator for more than an hour in hot weather. It is also essential to cook food until it is fully cooked and to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly after soaking them in water and salt or using appropriate disinfectants.
During summer trips and outings, experts emphasize the importance of keeping food and drinks refrigerated using ice and coolers, and protecting them from direct sunlight. Those suffering from food poisoning are advised to drink plenty of fluids to replace lost salts and to eat light foods such as boiled rice and bananas for at least two days.
The effect of sunlight on skin and eye health
On the other hand, prolonged direct exposure to sunlight, especially during midday hours, leads to varying degrees of skin damage, ranging from sunburn and pigmentation to an increased risk of skin cancer. Melasma is one of the most common summer skin problems, characterized by brown patches that appear on the face as a result of pregnancy, the use of certain contraceptives, or prolonged sun exposure. Prevention relies on using sunscreens suitable for your skin type after consulting a doctor.
Brown spots are also more noticeable in people with fair skin due to their lower melanin pigmentation compared to those with dark skin who have greater natural protection thanks to the higher percentage of melanin in their skin.
Eye infections and infectious diseases in the summer
Regarding eye health, summer sees an increase in infection rates due to the spread of bacteria and viruses, as well as the effects of environmental factors such as dust, smoke, and heat, leading to irritation of the conjunctiva and cornea. Trachoma is a contagious disease prevalent in hot climates, affecting the conjunctiva and cornea and causing the appearance of abnormal blood vessels and papillae within the cornea. Doctors warn that neglecting treatment can lead to scarring and eyelid deformities, decreased visual acuity, and, in advanced cases, blindness.
Raising health awareness and adhering to preventive measures are the best way to spend a safe and healthy summer away from seasonal risks.
