The sandstorm season may be a term that is not easily recognized around the world but is a familiar time of the year in the Middle East region, usually arriving in the UAE between May and July. Sandstorms can play havoc with traffic and infrastructure and can cause several health and safety hazards for inpiduals who suffer from respiratory illnesses and for high-risk health groups such as those who suffer from heart conditions, pregnant women and mobile workforces.
Research conducted in GCC countries has shown a causative link between the incidence of asthma during the sandstorm season, heightening a need for preparation and care if you or somebody you know suffers from asthma or any respiratory medical condition. Here are a few simple tips to keep the woes of the sandstorm season away:
Clear the Air
If you suffer from asthma, keeping the air around you as pure as possible should be your first priority. Using commercially available air purifiers and filters can help you lower the volume of allergens and particulate matters that trigger asthma.
Clean Out the Air Conditioner
Silica particles from sand and fine particulate sand can clog up your air conditioner intakes and pass through some filters. An increase in surface dust or the aggravation of respiratory symptoms should be a trigger to check, clean or replace air conditioning filters.
Masking a Sandstorm
Wearing a damp towel as a makeshift dust mask or using a commercial dust mask with a HEPA rating or a dust mask with a rating above 97 goes a long way in keeping particles of sand and dust from entering your airways. Masks are particularly useful if you are outdoors or are caught in a sudden sandstorm to minimize your inhalation of harmful particulate matter.
Stay Indoors
Staying indoors—whether in the office or at home—is a safe way to minimize your contact with allergens and pollutants. Whether you suffer from a respiratory illness or not, the intensity of a sandstorm and the volume of airborne pollutants can cause severe respiratory problems to the healthiest inpiduals. Keep your door and windows sealed, checking for any potential leaks that could let in sand and dust.
Hydration
External and internal hydration traps sand and dust particles, preventing them from aggravating asthma and allergies. Keeping your face wet and drinking about ten percent more water during the dry deluge of a sandstorm can minimize its hazards.
