The UK has experienced three atypical heatwaves in the early part of the summer. A heatwave is an extended period of hot weather relative to the expected conditions of the area at that time of year, which may be accompanied by high humidity.
The level of humidity can be higher in the UK than in continental Europe. If humidity is high, it is harder for the human body to keep cool as your sweat does not evaporate as quickly, adding to the overall negative consequences of extreme, climate induced weather changes.
Michael Loftus, UK Consumer Managing Director at Stiltz, has told Digital Journal that the elderly are at increased risk of heat exhaustion, dehydration and heatstroke. Loftus urges families and neighbours to check in on elderly relatives and friends regularly and to take the heat alert seriously.
He explains: “With a yellow heat health alert now in place across the UK, it’s important that people understand how these temperatures can impact the wellbeing of older and more vulnerable people.”
Under the Weather-Health Alert system, an amber alert means that weather impacts are likely to be felt across the whole UK health service.
Focusing on the elderly, Loftus notes: “High temperatures can be a severe challenge to those in later life, it can make them more vulnerable to heat exhaustion, dehydration and heatstroke. For those living alone or managing underlying health conditions, it’s essential to take extra care as during a heatwave, everyday activities such as cooking, climbing stairs, or spending time in a warm room can put added strain on the body.”
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are both heat-related illnesses, but heatstroke is significantly more severe and potentially life-threatening. Heat exhaustion is a warning sign, while heatstroke is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.
Loftus adds that should someone suffer from heat exhaustion or heat stroke, measures should be taken including: “There are easy ways to help reduce the risk of heat related illnesses. These include staying indoors during the hottest part of the day, typically between 11am and 3pm, keeping curtains or blinds drawn in rooms that get direct sunlight, and opening windows at night to let cooler air circulate. Wearing light, loose fitting clothing and using a fan or cool damp cloth on the back of the neck can also help regulate body temperature.”
In addition, Loftus recommends: “If someone feels dizzy, confused, unusually tired, or develops a headache or muscle cramps, it may be a sign of heat exhaustion. In those cases, they should be moved to a cooler place, given fluids, and a medical professional should be contacted if symptoms persist.”
The simple act of checking on those members of society who are most vulnerable is important. Loftus advises: “We encourage families, neighbours and carers to check in on older relatives and friends regularly and to take the heat alert seriously. Even a quick phone call or doorstep chat can make a big difference.”
