With constant weather changes come various health concerns for residents of the UAE. Healthier lifestyles, diet and sufficient precautions enable one to cope with the result of these unstable conditions

U.A.E overlooks the Persian Gulf on one side and vast deserts on the other. The climate in the region is a dry subtropical one, with year-round sunshine and rare rainfall. During summer, it is hot where the temperature would be between 35°C to 50°C with humidity in the range of 60 to 100 %. The winter, however, is mild and pleasant as the temperature ranges between 18°C to 25°C and the humidity is extremely low.  Dust laden sandstorms hit the region occasionally bringing strong winds carrying loose sand and dirt. With the extremes of heat, humidity and dust come various health issues for the residents of the country. Let’s look at ways on how one can tackle UAE’s weather-related health issues.

During the summer, due to high temperatures, people spend most of their time indoors in air-conditioned environments. The air-con units are usually set to low temperatures to beat the summer heat; however, the doctors have warned that one should not move from a very hot environment to a cool one or vice versa in a short time. “These fluctuations in temperatures make airways congested, and viruses love it. It is the same even in the winter months. Viruses thrive in mucus membranes, so we see patients with cold and flu-like symptoms all year round.” said Dr Ravi Arora, a family GP at NMC Specialty Hospital in Abu Dhabi. Therefore, it is advisable to spend some time in open areas like a building lobby where the temperature is usually warmer than closed spaces before you step out completely. This will give time for the body to adjust better to the surrounding temperature and cope with the temperature variations. Avoid outdoor activities such as long walks in the daytime during summers as it can leave you vulnerable to coughs and colds. A potentially fatal condition that can develop if left unchecked is heat exhaustion, hence look out for symptoms like fatigue, headache and, twitching. It is important to maintain a healthy diet and to drink plenty of fluids during these times. Although the U.A.E is blessed with abundant sunshine, some of the residents develop Vitamin D deficiency, hence it is important to eat oily fish or other fortified foods containing Vitamin D to offset the lack of direct sunlight.

Other common health issues which are widely seen in the region are asthma, allergies, and other pulmonary issues, which are caused due to dusty, arid. and sandstorm-prone environments. For people with such conditions, it is advisable to stay indoors, avoid vigorous outdoor activities and prolonged exposures to adverse environments.

Winter is the most awaited time of the year for the residents of the U.A.E. After the summer heat, people can be seen out and about enjoying the pleasant winter months. Barbeques, a day out at parks, long drives to the beautiful mountains, desert camping are among the common outdoorsy activities people love to do during these times. However, along with the good weather comes the rise in common cold, influenza, and other respiratory infections.  This is because, during winter months, one inhales cold air which leads to a reduction in nasal temperature, and in general there is an increase in the number of viruses and a drop in immunity. Since the immunity is at risk, it’s best to get flu shot vaccinations as it’s the most effective method to combat seasonal flu. Also, it’s recommended to have a balanced diet that includes a variety of greens, fruits, and vegetables. People with allergies and body aches find their symptoms aggravated in the cold season, therefore it is advisable for people with such conditions to take extra care in personal hygiene practices and stay indoors where the temperatures are warmer.  The dry winter air also reduces the moisture from the skin making it look very dry and dull, this is commonly referred to as dry skin. It is extremely important to keep the body and skin sufficiently hydrated during these times. It is recommended to switch to skin-care products that are more specific to the winter months and to nourish your skin regularly by drinking sufficient water. People tend to gain weight during winter because of the increase in the number of Karak chai, crispy Falafels, or large Shawarmas. This is the body’s craving for warm comfort food during cold or rainy days. It is important to understand this feeling and not to overindulge, it will help to keep your body fit and healthy.

The change in weather rise in health issues that are widely seen in the region is asthma, allergies, and other pulmonary issues, which are caused due to dusty, arid, and sandstorm-prone environments. In such condition buying a health insurance policy serves as a financial cover for unforeseen medical expenses. 

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog is designed as a guide and reference point to what you might expect in the U.A.E. Please be sure to check any information authorities to ensure information is valid and timely. It is important to note that information is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Any questions regarding a medical diagnosis or treatment should be directed to a medical practitioner.

Stay Safe, Stay Healthy!

One way to ensure good health throughout the year is through a dependable health insurance plan. Contact us today to find the best health insurance plans for your needs!