At the time of writing, the current heatwave we’re experiencing is forecast to last for around two weeks, with this coming Sunday predicted to be the hottest day in UK recorded history.

And whilst the current hot spells are welcomed by us all it’s important to enjoy the sun responsibly and be careful not to overheat. Whilst this blog is in no way intended to represent expert medical advice, we do hope it helps you to enjoy the sun and spot problems early if they do arise.

Aside from the usual wearing of a hat, using a high factor protective sun lotion and ensuring you drink plenty of water here are a few things to look out if you, or someone you know takes it a little too far.

Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are two different things and it’s helpful to know the differences and what you can do to spot them and prevent them.

Heat exhaustion is not usually too serious as long as you can cool yourself down quickly. Heatstroke on the other hand is serious and could lead to a medical emergency.

Here’s our guide on what to look for and what to do.

Heatstroke or heat exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion is what happens when your body becomes too hot and is struggling to regulate or cope. Anyone can be affected especially if you’re exercising or drinking alcohol. The symptoms you experience are simply your body’s way of warning you to cool down, and to cool down fast.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

  • Sweating and feeling general unwell
  • Feeling abnormally thirsty
  • Fast breathing and/or rapid pulse
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Loss of appetite and feeling nauseous
  • Cramps
  • A high temperature

You may not experience all the above but evidence of just one or two in hot weather should be taken seriously.

If ignored, heat exhaustion can turn into heatstroke which is far more serious.

Signs of heatstroke to look out for:

  • Still feeling unwell half an hour after resting in a cool place and drinking plenty of water
  • NOT sweating even while feeling too hot
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Fits (seizures)
  • Lack of responsiveness especially in younger or older people
  • A temperature of 40C or above
  • Shortness of breath
  • Severe confusion

What you can do

People suffering from heat exhaustion should rest in a cool place such as somewhere in the shade or even better somewhere with air conditioning.

Make sure you remove any excess and unnecessary clothing to expose as much of their skin to the air as possible. Use a cold wet flannel, towel, or ice pack to cool their skin around the neck and armpits. Fan their skin while it is moist – this will help the water to evaporate, which helps their skin cool down. Get them to drink water or sports/rehydration drinks.

Stay with them until they are feeling better which should be within half an hour. If symptoms persist or if you think someone has heatstroke, seek urgent medical attention without delay.

We hope this blog, ‘Taking Care in The Heat’, will help you spot the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and hope you enjoy your time out responsibly in the sunshine.

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