86 cases of stomach issues after two days of Ramadan
The Emergency Department of Hamad General Hospital has treated 86 people for stomach ailments in the first two days of Ramadan.
Such cases are common in the first few days of the holy month, Dr Warda Al Saad, Chief Consultant, Emergency Department, Hamad Medical Corporation, told this daily.
She advised people who fast to avoid overeating, do simple exercises and take more liquid to avoid stomach ailments during Ramadan.
People were treated for ailments caused by overeating, gastritis, gastroenteritis, billary colic — a type of pain related to the gallbladder that occurs when a gallstone transiently obstructs the cystic duct and the gallbladder contracts, and intestinal colic — severe abdominal pain associated with malfunction in the intestines.
Some teenagers were among those treated, she said.
All patients have been discharged with medicine and diet advice.
In Ramadan, people tend to eat a lot of rich food which causes discomfort and leads to indigestion.
If healthy and balanced meals are taken, then fasting can prove to be very beneficial, Dr Al Saad added.
“We advise people who fast to have benefits from the month of Ramadan to break fast with dates and milk, water, or fruit juice.
“After the Maghrib prayer, continue with a light starter such as soup and crackers. And then have a healthy and balanced dinner,’’ she said. “Do not overeat, and be sure to drink enough fluid during evening and Suhour as the holy month coincides with summer and avoid dehydration on the following day,” she added.
Dr Al Saad also advised people to avoid spicy and oily food which may cause indigestion and heart burn and recommended light exercises such as walking for 15-20 minutes at least three times per week.
In 2013, the department said an average of 15 patients were admitted for stomach ailments each night during Ramadan.
In 2012, over 8,000 people were hospitalised with health problems such as indigestion.
In 2011, the Emergency Department of HMC received more than 1,100 cases on the first day of Ramadan and most of them were related to stomach disorders caused by overeating and fatty food and sweets. On the second day, around 400 cases were received, mostly related to stomach illnesses.
Kulluna, the national safety campaign, has begun a programme to urge people to stay healthy and follow a balance diet during Ramadan.
It says a diet that has less than the normal amount of food but is significantly balanced will keep a person healthy and active during the holy month.
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