Doctors explain dehydration signs, how to prevent heatstroke
Dubai: As temperatures soar across Dubai and the rest of the country, doctors are urging residents to stay vigilant against dehydration and heat-related illnesses, and to pay closer attention not only to how much water they drink but also to how they drink it.
Experts have highlighted increasing concerns about dehydration and heat-related illnesses during the peak summer months.
Dr Shreen Mohamed Hemdan, Specialist in Family Medicine at Burjeel Medical Center, Al Shamkha, said that simply drinking water isn’t enough – how you hydrate matters too.
“Sudden large gulps or relying only on thirst can be ineffective this summer. Drink small amounts regularly throughout the day, starting early in the morning and continuing even if you’re indoors,” Dr Hemdan said, noting that staying consistently hydrated is one of the most effective ways to protect against heat exhaustion and other summer-related illnesses.
She also recommended incorporating hydrating foods into the diet.
“Electrolyte-rich fluids and water-dense fruits and vegetables like watermelon, oranges, and cucumbers also help. Avoid sugary and caffeinated drinks, as they can worsen dehydration,” Dr Hemdan said.
Dr Naureen Izhar, Specialist Nephrologist at Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital, Al Qusais, pointed out that dehydration can often go unnoticed until it becomes severe.
“Dry mouth and lips, dark urine, infrequent urination, dizziness, fatigue, and headaches are all early signs that your body is not getting enough fluids,” she said.
Dr Izhar said that dehydration can escalate into a serious medical concern if symptoms progress. “Dehydration becomes serious when it leads to very dry skin, sunken eyes, rapid heartbeat and breathing, confusion or fainting, and little or no urination over several hours.”
Doctors warned about two common but dangerous conditions triggered by prolonged heat exposure: heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, and cold, pale skin. If untreated, this can escalate into heatstroke – a life-threatening emergency.
“Heatstroke presents with a high body temperature, hot or red skin that may feel dry or damp, mental confusion, seizures, and even unconsciousness,” Dr Izhar noted.
To avoid heat-related illnesses, experts advised those working outdoors or engaging in sports to:
Stay hydrated with water and electrolyte-based fluids,
Take frequent breaks in shaded or cool areas,
Wear loose, light-coloured clothing,
Apply sun protection like sunscreen, hats, or sunglasses,
Avoid peak sun exposure between 12pm and 3pm,
Use the ‘buddy system’ to monitor each other for early symptoms.
In the case of heat exhaustion, move the affected person to a shaded or cool environment, remove excess clothing, offer water or electrolyte drinks, apply damp cloths to the skin, and let them rest.
For heatstroke, however, immediate medical intervention is critical.
“You need to cool the person as quickly as possible using ice packs or sponging with cold water, but never give fluids if they are unconscious or disoriented,” Dr Izhar cautioned.
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