Feeling the Heat – The Summer Heat Wave

Feeling the Heat – The Summer Heat Wave

Most of us welcome hot weather, but when it’s too hot for too long there are health risks. Now that this summer has produced a real heat wave, I thought we should look at ways to make sure that e the hot weather does not cause us serious problems.

As with cold weather, the very young, the elderly and the seriously ill are the groups who are particularly at risk of health problems when the weather is very hot. In particular, very hot weather can make heart and breathing problems worse.   The NHS have very good advice for us all to follow at this time when many of us, even if we do love the sun, are feeling the heat, especially at night.

In August 2003, temperatures hit 38C (101F) during a nine-day heat wave, the highest recorded in the UK and there were 2,000 to 3,000 more deaths than usual in England. Across Europe as a whole, there were round 30,000 excess deaths.”

When heat becomes a problem

An average temperature of 30°C by day and 15°C overnight would usually trigger a health alert. These temperatures can have a significant effect on people's health if they last for at least two days and the night in between.

Why is a heat wave a problem?

The main risks posed by a heat wave are: 

·       dehydration (not having enough water)

·       overheating, which can make symptoms worse for people who already have problems with their heart or breathing

·       heat exhaustion

·       heatstroke

Who is most at risk?

A heat wave can affect anyone, the NHS informs us but the most vulnerable people in extreme heat are:

·       older people, especially those over 75

·       babies and young children

·       people with a serious chronic condition, especially heart or breathing problems

·       people with mobility problems, for example people with Parkinson’s disease or who have had a stroke

·       people with serious mental health problems

·       people on certain medications, including those that affect sweating and temperature control

·       people who misuse alcohol or drugs

·       people who are physically active, for example labourers or those doing sports

Tips for coping in hot weather

The following advice applies to everybody when it comes to keeping cool and comfortable and reducing health risks:

·       Shut windows and pull down the shades when it is hotter outside. If it’s safe, open them for ventilation when it is cooler.

·       Avoid the heat: stay out of the sun and don’t go out between 11am and 3pm (the hottest part of the day) if you’re vulnerable to the effects of heat.

·       Keep rooms cool by using shades or reflective material outside the windows. If this isn't possible, use light-coloured curtains and keep them closed (metallic blinds and dark curtains can make the room hotter).

·       Have cool baths or showers, and splash yourself with cool water.

·       Drink cold drinks regularly, such as water and fruit juice. Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol.

·       Stay tuned to the weather forecast on the radio or TV, or at the Met Office website.

·       Plan ahead to make sure you have enough supplies, such as food, water and any medications you need.

·       Identify the coolest room in the house so you know where to go to keep cool.

·       Wear loose, cool clothing, and a hat if you go outdoors.

·       Check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves.

So whether you love the heat or can’t wait for some cooler weather, make sure that you stay safe and well while the hot weather lasts and for more information go to the NHS website. http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Summerhealth/Pages/Heatwave.aspx 

Please note that all information and content on UK Health Radio and this blog are provided by the authors, producers and companies themselves and are only intended as additional information to your general knowledge and not as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. So please do not delay or disregard any medical advice received due to information gathered on UK Health Radio.

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Amanda Thomas

UK Health Radio