A heat wave is forecast with temperatures rising above 30 degrees centigrade.
Detrimental health effects of hot weather include dehydration, overheating, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke , which is a medical emergency and can be fatal. Generally the risk of these conditions can be minimalised by preventative measures.
People over 75 , babies, children under 2, people with heart, kidney,and breathing problems, insulin dependant diabetics and people with poor mobility are particularly vulnerable .
Keep your body cool and hydrated. Take a cool shower or bath. Wear light loose clothing made of natural materials. If outside wear a hat and sunglasses. Avoid going outside at the hottest time of day.Stay in the shade. Avoid strenuous physical exercise, especially in the heat of the day.
Drink regularly and avoid too much tea, coffee, and alcohol. Eat little and often.
Keep your home cool.Hang shades or light curtains in rooms that get the morning or afternoon sun .Move to the coolest room in the home. If possible open windows at night and early morning.
If it is too hot at home spend a few hours in a cool place such as and air conditioned public building.
Do not leave children or pets in parked vehicles.
Think about and check on others.
The signs of heat exhaustion can come on rapidly and may include:
Heavy sweating, feeling sick or vomiting, muscle or abdominal cramps, fainting, dark urine(indicating dehydration), and a fast heart rate. For advice call 111.
Signs of heat stroke may include:
A temperature of 40 degrees or more, confusion, lack of coordination, anxiety, hallucinations, fits and the skin becoming dry and suddenly stopping sweating. The patient may go unconscious. Call 999.
Dr Roger Goulds
Dr Roger Goulds has over 30 years experience as a General Practitioner in both the NHS and private sector. He has also worked in health screening and is very keen on early diagnosis and disease prevention. He has a special interest in sports and musculoskeletal medicine and works with professional sports men and women.
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No mention of sunscreen!!! Really?????
on June 30, 2015 at 10:16 am Gill NuttallI totally agree with the need to use sunscreen,but the blog was more about staying cool and keeping out of the sun altogether
on June 30, 2015 at 11:04 am Dr Roger Goulds