8 July 2011
To many people in the southeast and across the country, it seems like summer came early this year, as the UK recorded its hottest April on record and the driest spring in a century.
But, whilst few people would complain at good weather, very high temperatures can be harmful to your health, prompting a top doctor at Epsom, Sutton and St Helier hospitals to give advice to local residents about how to look after themselves if temperatures rise.
Dr Ruth Charlton is the deputy medical director at the Trust. She explained: "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.
Dr Charlton continued: "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 (on 0845 446 47) or your GP. Call 999 if a person has collapsed."
Top tips for keeping cool
Dr Charlton added: "It is best for your health to avoid getting too hot in the first place. Some tips to keep yourself and others cool include:
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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.
"It’s important to remember those who are more at risk from the effects of heat. If anyone you know is likely to be at risk during the hot weather, 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."
