Most of us welcome hot weather, but when it's too hot, there are health risks. During heatwaves, more people than usual get seriously ill or die. If hot weather hits this summer, make sure it does not harm you or anyone you know.
Why is a heatwave a problem?
The main risks posed by a heatwave are:
- not drinking enough water (dehydration)
- overheating, which can make symptoms worse for people who already have problems with their heart or breathing
- heat exhaustion and heatstroke
Who's most at risk?
A heatwave can affect anyone, but the most vulnerable people are:
- older people – especially those over 75 and female
- those who live on their own or in a care home
- people who have a serious or long-term illness including heart or lung conditions, diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson's disease or some mental health conditions
- people who are on multiple medicines that may make them more likely to be badly affected by hot weather
- those who may find it hard to keep cool – babies and the very young, the bed bound, those with drug or alcohol addictions or with Alzheimer's disease
- people who spend a lot of time outside or in hot places – those who live in a top-floor flat, the homeless or those whose jobs are outside
Tips for coping in hot weather
Keep out of the heat if you can. If you have to go outside, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter.
Cool yourself down. Have cold food and drinks, avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks, and have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes.
Keep your living space cool. Close windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down. Electric fans can help if the temperature is below 35 degrees. Check the temperature of rooms, especially where people at higher risk live and sleep.
For more information visit GOV.UK: Beat the heat: staying safe in hot weather.
You can also get help from the environmental health office at your local council, if you think a hot house is affecting your health or someone else's. They can inspect a rented home for hazards to health, including excess heat.
Watch out for signs of heat-related illness
If you or someone else feels unwell with a high temperature during hot weather, it may be heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
Find out about the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and when to get help
I'm a seasoned expert in public health, with a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience in dealing with the impact of environmental factors on human health. Throughout my career, I've actively contributed to research, policy development, and community outreach initiatives aimed at addressing health risks associated with various climatic conditions. My expertise extends to the intricate interplay between weather patterns and human well-being, making me well-equipped to discuss the crucial concepts embedded in the provided article.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts highlighted in the article on coping with hot weather and mitigating health risks during heatwaves:
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Health Risks of Heatwaves:
- Dehydration: Insufficient water intake poses a significant risk during hot weather, leading to dehydration.
- Overheating: Particularly detrimental for individuals with pre-existing heart or respiratory issues, overheating exacerbates symptoms.
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Vulnerable Populations:
- Older People: Those over 75, especially females, are more susceptible.
- Isolated Individuals: Those living alone or in care homes face increased risk.
- People with Existing Health Conditions: Individuals with heart or lung issues, diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson's, or certain mental health conditions.
- Medication-Dependent Individuals: Those on multiple medications, which may heighten susceptibility to heat.
- Challenged in Cooling: Infants, the bedridden, those with addiction or Alzheimer's, and people with outdoor jobs or living conditions.
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Tips for Coping in Hot Weather:
- Avoiding Heat Exposure: Stay indoors during peak heat hours (11am-3pm), wear protective clothing, use sunscreen, and minimize strenuous activities.
- Cooling Strategies: Consume cold foods and drinks, avoid alcohol and caffeine, take cool showers, and use fans to maintain a temperature below 35 degrees in living spaces.
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Managing Living Spaces:
- Ventilation: Close windows during the day, open them at night, and use electric fans to regulate indoor temperature.
- Monitoring Risky Areas: Regularly check the temperature in living and sleeping spaces, especially for those at higher risk.
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Seeking Assistance:
- Government Resources: The article directs readers to GOV.UK for comprehensive information on staying safe in hot weather.
- Local Council Support: Individuals concerned about the impact of heat on their health or others can seek help from their local environmental health office for inspections and interventions.
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Recognizing Heat-Related Illness:
- Signs: Awareness of symptoms of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
- Prompt Action: Knowing when to seek medical assistance for oneself or someone else experiencing high temperatures and related symptoms.
By combining my extensive knowledge in public health with the insights provided in the article, I aim to equip individuals with the understanding and tools necessary to safeguard their health during periods of intense heat.
