NHS hot weather health advice

Due to the extreme temperatures predicted on Monday 18 and Tuesday 19 July 2022, NHS England (London) has issued the following health advice –

Using NHS services:

If you or a family member feel unwell due to the heat, go to 111 online first or call 111 if you can’t go online. You can also visit your pharmacist for advice
Only dial 999 in a medical emergency

Stay hydrated:

Sunburn:

Try to keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm, when UV radiation is strongest
If you have to go out, stick to the shade where you can and regularly apply sunscreen

Keeping the home cool:

Keeping your living space cool is especially important for those who need to stay at home this summer
Shade or cover windows exposed to direct sunlight and keep windows that are exposed to the sun closed during the day
If possible and safe, open windows at night if it feels cooler outside

Check on others:

Check on vulnerable neighbours, family or friends every day during the hot weather. Older people, young children and people with long term conditions are the most vulnerable and may need help keeping cool

Look out for the signs of heat-related harm:

If you feel dizzy, weak or have intense thirst and a headache, move to a cool place as soon as possible. Drink some water or diluted fruit juice to rehydrate. Avoid excess alcohol
If you have painful muscular spasms (particularly in the legs, arms, or abdomen), rest immediately in a cool place and drink electrolyte drinks. Most people should start to recover within 30 mins and if not, you should seek medical help. Call 111 if you feel unusual symptoms, or if symptoms persist
Call 999 if a person develops any signs of heatstroke as this is a medical emergency. Further information on heatstroke and heat-related illness can be found at www.nhs.uk/conditions/heat-exhaustion-heatstroke/

On car journeys:

Ensure that babies, children, or older people are not left alone in parked cars, which can quickly overheat

By Editor on 15th July 2022 / News / Leave a comment