Heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and sunstroke
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses excessive water and salt through sweating, often due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Symptoms may include fatigue, headache, dizziness, excessive thirst, and nausea.
If not addressed, heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke - a medical emergency where the body’s temperature rises above 40°C (104°F) and it can no longer regulate its internal heat. This can lead to confusion, rapid heartbeat, and even unconsciousness.
The term 'sunstroke' is sometimes used to describe heatstroke caused specifically by direct sun exposure, particularly affecting the head and brain. Regardless of the cause, heatstroke requires immediate medical attention, though severe outcomes are rare with prompt treatment.'
How to avoid overheating
Hydration
Consume cold drinks regularly, ideally water, and avoid tea, coffee and alcohol as these can further dehydrate the body.
Cool water
Regular cool baths or showers, or splashing your face with cold water, are other useful ways of keeping cool.
Clothing
Try to wear lightweight, light coloured and loose clothing. Loose fitting clothing will allow air circulation around your body and light coloured fabrics will reflect the light and heat. Try to also choose natural fabrics such as cotton and linen as these are better at letting your skin breathe.
Shade yourself
Make an effort to stay out of the sun, but if you must go outside, wear a hat as well as sunglasses to protect your eyes and face.
Protect your skin
Always remember to apply sun cream with an SPF of at least 30, even if the sky is cloudy as UV rays can still pass through and cause damage to your skin.
Rest
If it is really hot, try to avoid doing any strenuous activity that can cause your body to increase in temperature even further. If you or someone else feels unwell, find somewhere cool to rest and drink plenty of water.
Medical assistance
Most importantly, always seek medical help if symptoms such as breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, weakness, dizziness or cramps get worse, or don't go away.
