HOW TO COPE WITH SOARING TEMPERATURES THIS SUMMER

For those of us who live in Dubai, it is a well known fact that summer is hot and humid. Yet, just how hot is it in this bustling metropolis? Searching online, websites, probably written for tourists, inform us that the average temperature in Dubai is between 35 and 40 during July and August, the UAE’s hottest months. For those of us who live here however, those numbers seem a little low. On a good day, it may be 39 but on average it’s more like 42-47.

Surviving the summer here requires good old fashioned common sense, for example don’t sit out in the midday sun, or from 11-3, drink at least 2 litres of water a day, more if you are exercising or out in the sun and sweating a lot.  Eat light healthy nutritious meals, fresh fruits and salads will give you enough energy to get you through the day and wear layers.

People that should take extra care are those who work outside as well as the sick and elderly. Elderly people in particular need to pay special attention to their health as thirst levels decline with health and sweat glands don’t produce as much sweat as they do in the young. As the sweat of an elderly person contains more salt, a lack of salt in the body can lead to sudden drops in blood pressure. In addition, elderly people are more likely to be taking medication that can cause fluid loss and thus dehydration.