Britain is braced for searing heat as the first-ever red alert for extreme heat is issued today, with temperatures anticipated to reach 107F (41C) on what would likely be the hottest day ever recorded in the UK.
Health officials are concerned that the National Health Service (NHS) may be overwhelmed by the number of heat-related casualties if the mercury rises to levels normally seen only in Death Valley, California, the hottest region on earth.
The Met Office has issued a warning stating that the weather might pose a threat to the health of the entire population, not just those who are susceptible to excessive heat, resulting in serious sickness or even death.
Health officials have urged Britons to be on the lookout for signs of heatstroke, heat rash (prickly heat), and heat fatigue, as excessive heat is on the way.
What is the definition of heat stroke and what are its symptoms?
Heatstroke occurs when the body is unable to cool itself and a person’s body temperature rises to a dangerous level after prolonged exposure to direct sunshine.
Common symptoms consist of:
Confusion, mental status alteration, and slurred speech.
Not perspiring is a sign of dehydration.
Consciousness loss and incoherence
Hot, dry skin or heavy sweating.
Seizures.
sickness or vomiting.
Extremely high body temperature
Vertigo or a headache.
Rapid, robust pulse.
Within 10 to 15 minutes, the body’s temperature can reach 106°F (41C) or greater when heatstroke begins. Heat stroke can result in lasting impairment or death if it is not treated immediately.
If you or someone else is experiencing the following heatstroke symptoms, please dial 111:
Feeling ill after 30 minutes of resting in a cool environment and consuming copious amounts of water.
Not perspiring despite feeling overheated.
A temperature of 40 degrees Celsius or above causes confusion.
However, if the symptoms are more severe – rapid or shallow breathing, shortness of breath, loss of consciousness, unresponsiveness – contact 999 immediately and place the individual in the recovery position. Wait till the arrival of the emergency services.
To prevent heatstroke, the NHS suggests the following measures to prevent dehydration and keep the body cool:
Consume copious amounts of cold beverages, especially when exercising.
Take cool showers or baths.
Wear loose, light-colored clothing.
The application of water to skin or clothing.
Avoid the sun from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Avoid much drinking.
Avoid intense workouts.
Children, the elderly, and adults with long-term health disorders (such as diabetes or heart disease) are more susceptible to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, according to the NHS.
Why does heat rash (prickly heat) occur, and how do I cure it?
In severe heat, the body increases perspiration production. The feeling of cool moisture on the skin is immediately refreshing, but more significantly, as each drop of the sweat evaporates, it removes a small amount of heat.
Therefore, humidity can increase the danger of overheating. When the air is already saturated with humidity and unable to absorb any more moisture, sweat evaporation slows down.
If our sweat glands become obstructed, warm moisture cannot reach our skin. As a result, the skin becomes inflamed, and a rash of reddish skin and small blisters, accompanied by a prickling feeling, may emerge.
As soon as the body or even simply its surface is cooled, heat rash swiftly disappears. If the skin is broken, the only more significant risk is that the inflamed region may get infected.
On scorching summer days, it occurs most frequently when people wear tight clothing that traps heat against the skin’s surface and clogs pores, so be careful to wear light, breathable materials.
Keep your skin cold to avoid perspiring and irritating the rash. Moreover, Britons should:
Keep your skin cool loose cotton garments should be worn.
Use lightweight bedding.
Take cool showers or baths.
Consume a lot of fluids to prevent dehydration.
For up to twenty minutes, apply something cold, such as a moist cloth or ice pack (wrapped in a tea towel), to the affected area. Tap or pat the rash rather than scratching it, and avoid using fragrant shower gels or lotion.
If the rash persists, you should also consult your local pharmacy or dial 111 if symptoms worsen.
What is heat exhaustion exactly?
According to the NHS, heat exhaustion is typically not life-threatening if it can be treated within 30 minutes. If the condition progresses to heat stroke, it must be handled as an emergency.
Examples of heat exhaustion symptoms are:
A headache is present.
Dizziness and disorientation.
loss of appetite and sickness
Excessive perspiration and pale, moist skin.
Muscle spasms in the arms, legs, and abdomen.
Rapid breathing or heart rate.
A temperature above 38 degrees Celsius.
Being extremely thirsty
Adults and children typically exhibit the same symptoms of heat exhaustion, however, children may become drowsy and listless.
If someone exhibits signs of heat exhaustion, they must be cooled using the following four methods:
Place them in a cool location.
Request that they lie down and slightly lift their feet.
Encourage them to drink a lot of water. Sport and rehydration beverages are acceptable.
Spray or sponge their skin with cool water and use a fan to chill it. Cold packs applied to the armpits or neck are also beneficial.
Within 30 minutes, the affected individual should begin to chill down and feel better.
It is imperative that you stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight during peak hours, and always adhere to government recommendations to ensure your safety throughout this week’s record-breaking heat.
