Heat Stroke: The summer scourge one must combat

Summer has already begun and as the mercury soars beyond 45 degrees C, we officially accept the seasonal verdict and brace ourselves to deal with its onslaught.

Summer in this region can be unforgiving. In several countries in the region such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, temperatures frequently soar beyond 45°C, and on some days approach 50°C. In such conditions, the human body’s ability to regulate temperature can be pushed to its limits. Among the most serious consequences of extreme heat is heat stroke, a medical emergency that can develop rapidly and, if untreated, lead to organ failure or even death.

Dr. Adel Al Sisi
Group Chief Medical Officer & consultant
Prime Healthcare Group, Ambassador of
World Federation of Intensive & Critical Care

Understanding how heat stroke happens, and how to respond quickly, can literally save lives, says Dr Adel Al Sisi, Group Medical Officer and consultant Prime HealthCare Group. He explains why heat strokes can prove to be so lethal.

“The human body normally maintains its internal temperature around 37°C through sweating and increased blood flow to the skin. But prolonged exposure to extreme heat, especially combined with dehydration or physical exertion, can overwhelm this natural cooling mechanism.

Heat stroke occurs when the body’s core temperature rises to 40°C (104°F) or higher and the body’s thermoregulatory mechanisms fail to dissipate heat effectively. Without rapid treatment, it can damage the brain, heart, kidneys and muscles.”

He continued, “Medical experts often distinguish between two types of heat stroke:

Classic heat stroke, caused by prolonged exposure to hot environments, particularly affecting the elderly or people with chronic illness.

Exertional heat stroke, triggered by intense physical activity in hot weather, commonly seen among athletes, outdoor workers and delivery personnel.

In this region, where both high temperatures and outdoor labor are common, both forms are a significant public-health concern.”

Early Warning Signs

Heat stroke rarely arrives without warning. Often, it is preceded by heat cramps or heat exhaustion. Recognizing these early signs can prevent a serious medical episode.

Common symptoms include:

He added, “Patients who come to our emergency with heat strokes display symptoms of confusion, slurred speech, or loss of consciousness which are red flags that require immediate medical attention. People particularly vulnerable include children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with obesity or chronic illnesses, whose bodies may struggle to regulate heat efficiently.”

What To Do If Someone Has Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. The priority is to cool the body as quickly as possible while seeking professional medical help.

Here are the key first-aid steps recommended by Dr Adel.

1. Move the person to a cooler place

Take him immediately into shade or an air-conditioned environment.

2. Remove excess clothing

This allows the body to release heat more effectively.

3. Start rapid cooling

Use whichever method is available: Cold water immersion or shower; Ice packs placed on the neck, armpits and groin; Cold wet towels or sponging; Fans to increase evaporation.

Rapid cooling is considered the most effective treatment and should begin even before the patient reaches hospital, he advised.

4. Hydrate carefully

If the person is conscious, give small sips of cool water or electrolyte drinks.

5. Call emergency services

If symptoms include confusion, unconsciousness or seizures, immediate medical intervention is essential.

Experts emphasize that heat stroke can worsen rapidly, so the individual should never be left alone while cooling measures are underway.

Heat stroke is preventable

In the Middle East, preventing heat stroke requires adapting daily routines to extreme weather conditions. Once you know that the temperatures are going to be beyond 45 degrees, it is important to take the following steps, cautions Dr Adel.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is one of the most significant risk factors. Experts recommend drinking at least two to three liters of water daily if engaging in physical activity or spending time outdoors, increasing intake if outdoors. Electrolyte drinks, coconut water, or lemon water with a pinch of salt can help replace minerals lost through sweating.

Avoid Peak Heat Hours

Whenever possible, limit outdoor activity between 11am and 4pm, when temperatures and solar radiation are at their highest.

Dress for the Climate

Loose-fitting, light-colored clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen allows heat to dissipate more easily.

Plan Outdoor Activity Wisely

Exercise or physical labor should ideally be scheduled for early morning or late evening. Gradual acclimatization to heat over 10–14 days can also help the body adapt to hot environments.

Eat Light, Hydrating Foods, especially during the day

Fruits such as watermelons, melons and cucumbers help maintain hydration and electrolyte balance.

Protect Against the Sun

Hats, umbrellas, and sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) help reduce heat absorption and prevent sunburn, which impairs the body’s ability to cool itself. Authorities across the Gulf are increasingly recognizing the health risks posed by rising summer temperatures. Public health campaigns, including awareness drives and workplace safety programs, are being implemented to educate workers and employers about heat-related illnesses and first aid. Measures such as mandatory midday breaks for outdoor laborers and the installation of cooling rest stations for delivery workers are also becoming more common across the region.