With warmer temperatures becoming more frequent across the UK, it is important for the public to recognise the signs of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. While heat exhaustion can often be managed by cooling down, heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that demands urgent medical attention. Awareness of the symptoms and appropriate responses can make a critical difference in outcomes.
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats and struggles to regulate its internal temperature. Common indicators include profuse sweating, a feeling of being excessively hot and unwell, headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, muscle cramps, and a fast pulse. The body temperature may reach 38C or higher. Young children, who might not articulate their feelings, may appear unusually floppy and sleepy. This condition can affect anyone, including otherwise healthy individuals, particularly after strenuous activity in high temperatures or excessive alcohol consumption in the sun. Certain medications can also impair the body's ability to regulate temperature.
If someone is suspected of having heat exhaustion, immediate steps should be taken to cool them down. This involves moving them to a cool place, such as an air-conditioned room or shade, and removing any unnecessary clothing. Cooling the skin is vital, using methods like a cool, wet sponge, flannel, or spray water. Applying cold packs to the neck and armpits, or even wrapping them in a cool, wet sheet, can be effective. Fanning the moist skin helps water evaporate, aiding the cooling process. The individual should also be encouraged to drink water, or sports/rehydration drinks. It is important to stay with them and monitor their condition, as they should start to improve within 30 minutes.
However, if symptoms do not improve after 30 minutes of rest and cooling, or if new, more severe signs appear, the situation may have escalated to heatstroke. Heatstroke is a medical emergency where the body's core temperature rises dangerously high, often to 40C or above, and it can no longer manage the heat itself. Key warning signs include not sweating despite feeling very hot, profound confusion, fast or shallow breathing, seizures, and loss of consciousness or unresponsiveness. In such cases, urgent medical help is required.
For suspected heatstroke, it is imperative to call 999 immediately. While waiting for emergency services, continue efforts to cool the person down. Vulnerable populations, including older adults, very young children, and individuals with pre-existing long-term health conditions, are at a higher risk of developing both heat exhaustion and heatstroke. The NHS advises these groups to take extra precautions during periods of hot weather, such as staying hydrated and avoiding direct sun during the hottest parts of the day.
Understanding these differences and knowing the correct actions can prevent a serious health crisis. Always prioritise seeking professional medical advice if there is any doubt about an individual's condition. For non-emergencies, individuals can contact NHS 111 for guidance.