9 July 2010
Parts of England, including the southeast, are forecast to have temperatures as high as 31 degrees Celsius over the next few days.
Whilst most of us look forward to the hot weather, very high temperatures can be harmful to your health.
Those with heart, respiratory and serious health problems are more at risk and the heat can make these conditions worse. Babies and young children are also especially at risk.
Danger symptoms to watch out for in hot weather include:
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Feeling faint and dizzy;
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Feeling short of breath;
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Vomiting;
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Increased confusion.
If you are affected by any of these symptoms it is important to cool down as quickly as possible, avoid paracetamol (which can make you worse) and seek further advice from NHS Direct or a doctor. Call 999 if a person has collapsed.
Top tips for keeping cool
It is best for your health to avoid getting too hot in the first place. Remember to think of those who are more at risk from the effects of heat. Below are some tips to keep yourself and others cool:
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Keep windows closed when the room is cooler than it is outside;
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Open windows at night when the temperature outside has dropped;
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Reduce heat from sunlight coming through the windows;
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Have plenty of cold drinks, avoid excess alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks;
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Have cool showers or baths, put a loose, cotton, damp cloth or scarf on the back of the neck, spray or splash your face with cold water frequently to help keep your body cool.
If anyone you know is likely to be at risk during a heatwave, help them get the advice and support they need. Older people living on their own should be visited daily to check they are OK.
Remember, heatstroke can kill. It can develop very suddenly and rapidly lead to unconsciousness. If you suspect someone has heatstroke, call 999 immediately.
