Medical warnings: Weather fluctuations, asthma patients, and how to prevent them
The Arab region, and Saudi Arabia in particular, is experiencing frequent waves of weather changes that directly impact public health. In this context, two medical consultants have warned of the serious health consequences of these weather fluctuations, including heavy dust storms and rainfall, which pose a direct threat to the most vulnerable groups.
The region's history with sandstorms and the impact of weather fluctuations
Historically, the Arabian Peninsula is known for its desert environment, making it susceptible to seasonal dust storms and sandstorms. These natural phenomena are not isolated occurrences but rather part of the regional climate, requiring continuous adaptation. With the global climate changes the planet has witnessed in recent decades, the frequency of weather fluctuations has increased, leading to more intense dust storms and a greater impact on air quality. This natural air pollution carries fine particles capable of deeply penetrating the respiratory system, which explains the significant rise in emergency room visits during these times of the year.
The health and economic dimensions of the phenomenon of weather change
The impact of these conditions extends beyond temporary discomfort, posing a significant health and economic burden at both the local and regional levels. From a health perspective, these conditions exacerbate chronic respiratory diseases, leading to increased hospital admissions and placing additional strain on healthcare systems. Internationally, the World Health Organization classifies air pollution, including natural dust, as a major environmental risk factor for respiratory illness. Therefore, public awareness and adherence to medical guidelines are the first line of defense in mitigating these burdens and protecting lives.
Face masks are a protective shield and an emergency plan to deal with respiratory crises
Speaking to Al-Youm newspaper, the two experts stressed the need for strict preventative measures to protect children, the elderly, and asthma sufferers. Dr. Khaled Bawaked, a consultant in family medicine and allergies, emphasized the necessity of staying indoors during dust storms, advising people to wear protective masks as a shield when going out for essential reasons. He pointed out that dust storms exacerbate asthma and intensify the suffering of asthma patients, as they trigger constriction of the airway muscles, causing severe shortness of breath, persistent coughing, and wheezing.
Dr. Khaled Bawaked
Bawaked urged asthma sufferers to strictly adhere to their prescribed treatments, emphasizing the importance of having a family "emergency plan" that includes using inhalers and seeking immediate medical attention at emergency departments if respiratory attacks persist. The consultant also stressed the need to keep windows tightly closed and clean surfaces to prevent the infiltration of fine particles, advising people to drink plenty of water and avoid sugary and carbonated drinks as they are ineffective at hydrating the body.
Protecting children from the dangers of rain and floods
In a related context, pediatric consultant Dr. Nasr al-Din al-Sharif advised families to prevent their children from going out during dust storms or playing in stagnant rainwater to avoid the transmission of diseases and bacterial infections that thrive in such environments.
Dr. Nasr al-Din al-Sharif
Al-Sharif strongly warned against touching power lines or using mobile phones or electrical devices outdoors during thunderstorms, to avoid the risk of fatal electric shocks, which are common in such weather conditions. He emphasized that public awareness of these precautionary measures significantly contributes to reducing injuries and accidents, and protects the entire community from needing emergency rooms.
