Diabetics who plan to undertake the Haj pilgrimage have been advised to avoid overexertion during the journey to prevent medical complications.
The pilgrims have also been told to space out Tawaf and Saei — two important rituals of the Haj — to prevent dehydration. Doctors have recommended that both rituals should be performed late in the evening or at night to prevent cases of heat stroke.
“Patients suffering from hyperglycaemia or high blood sugar should be aware of the signs and symptoms of their condition. If they feel too thirsty, dryness of mouth, itching of skin, fatigue or blurring of vision, they should immediately check their blood sugar level,” said Dr Amin Ahmed Al Jayyousi, Senior Consultant in the Endocrine/Diabetes Division of the Hamad General Hospital.
Diabetics should take their medicines regularly and avoid foods high in fat. They should also ensure the insulin they are carrying is stored in cold and hygienic conditions and is fit for use.
As for patients suffering from low blood sugar or hypoglycaemia, doctors have advised reduction in the insulin dose due to the physical exertion involved during the rituals.
Patients suffering from low sugar have also been advised to carry some sweets and biscuits, apart from ensuring that they take their medicines at the correct time and eat proper meals.
“Hypoglycaemia or low blood sugar patients can suffer from excessive sweating, trembling of hands, hunger pangs, weakness, palpitation, loss of concentration and, in extreme cases, bouts of convulsions if they do not take adequate medical care during the pilgrimage,” said Al Jayyousi.
As diabetes patients are at high risk of having foot infections and injuries, doctors have advised them to wear proper footwear, including using special shoes.
Such patients should not walk barefoot during the rituals and have been instructed to clean their feet and toes regularly to avoid fungal infections and dryness.
The Qatar Diabetic Association in collaboration with HMC doctors conducted a special workshop for more than 30 physicians from Doha who will be accompanying the pilgrims from Qatar.
The Peninsula