Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

Heat exhaustion is not usually serious if you can cool down within 30 minutes. However, if it turns into heatstroke, it needs to be treated as an emergency as heat stroke can be life threatening.

The UK saw its hottest August day in 17 years on Friday with soaring temperatures as high as 36C in some parts of the country.

Many head to the beach and the parks to enjoy the sunshine and the good news is the sunshine is expected to stretch out into early next week.

As many people are still remaining in isolation indoors, a lot of homes can overheat, so it’s important we continue to check on older people and those with underlying health conditions, particularly if they’re living alone and may be socially isolated.

A heat-health warning has been issued for southern England, and although we wish to enjoy the glorious sunshine it can, without due care, lead to heat exhaustion or more serious, heat stroke.

Prevention

• drink plenty of cold drinks, especially when exercising
• take cool baths or showers
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing, hat
• sprinkle water over skin or clothes
• avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm
• if in the sun ensure to use plenty of sunscreen
• avoid excess alcohol
• avoid extreme exercise

Signs & Symptoms

• a headache
• dizziness and confusion
• loss of appetite and feeling sick
• excessive sweating and pale, clammy skin
• cramps in the arms, legs and stomach
• fast breathing or pulse
• temperature of 38C or above
• being very thirsty

Treatment

• Move the casualty to a cool place.
• Lie them down and raise their feet slightly.
• Get them to drink plenty of water. Sports or rehydration drinks are OK.
• Cool their skin – spray or sponge them with cool water and fan them. Cold packs around the armpits or neck are good, too.

With heat exhaustion they should start to cool down and feel better within 30 minutes. If, however, you are unable to cool the person down, this can lead to Heatstroke.

CALL 999 if:

• the casualty is still feeling unwell after 30 minutes of resting in a cool place and drinking plenty of water
• no longer sweating although they are too hot
• a temperature of 40C or above
• fast breathing or shortness of breath
• feeling confused
• a fit (seizure)
• loss of consciousness
• not responsive

Heatstroke can be very serious if not treated quickly.

Put the person in the Recovery Position if they lose consciousness while you’re waiting for help.

Please see all our first aid and other courses HERE

“Stay Safe this Summer”