The UK recorded its second hottest day ever in July. Temperatures reached a sweltering 38.1C, falling just short of the all-time high of 38.5C that was reached back in 2003. The hottest day brought much misery for some with commuters facing disruption, pavements melting and many falling ill. Brits have always enjoyed a mixed bag of weather but with such extremities, health issues could arise. What are the best ways to keep healthy in the heat?
Boots pharmacist Janky Raja shared her advice on how to get prepared for another heatwave:
Make those household checks
When hot weather is forecast, make sure the property you’re living in is well equipped to keep you cool.
Ensure your windows can be opened and if they are exposed to direct sunlight, make sure shutters, blinds or curtains are installed which can help to keep heat out.
Check your fridge, freezer and any fans you own are working properly and that your central heating can be turned off.
Make sure you have enough supplies such as food, water and any medications you need in case you are unable to leave your property during the hottest times of the day.
Find the sweet spot
Identify the coolest room in your property for you to spend time in. As hot air rises, this is more likely to be downstairs in a room with fewer windows.
To stop your rooms from getting too hot, keep your blinds, shutters and curtains closed during the day to help reduce the amount of sunlight getting in.
Find the sweet spot
Identify the coolest room in your property for you to spend time in. As hot air rises, this is more likely to be downstairs in a room with fewer windows.
To stop your rooms from getting too hot, keep your blinds, shutters and curtains closed during the day to help reduce the amount of sunlight getting in.
Hydration, hydration, hydration
It goes without saying that you need to keep hydrated during a heatwave.
To reduce your risk of becoming dehydrated, drink plenty of fluids and cut down on drinks with a diuretic effect such as coffee and alcohol.
Try eating smaller meals more regularly – your body warms up as it processes larger meals, so eating little and more often might help you to keep cooler.
Think about your summer wardrobe
Opt for loose, cool clothing made of lightweight, natural materials such as cotton to help your skin breathe.
Avoid dark colours and stick to summery whites and creams, which reflect the sun’s hot rays rather than absorbing them.
If you go outside, wear sunglasses and a hat and of course, make sure to apply a sunscreen with a high SPF and good UVA protection.
Cool down
To cool yourself down, take a cool shower or bath, or try putting wet towels or cool packs on your wrists, neck or feet.
If you struggle getting to sleep in the heat, try following these steps before you get into bed.
If you believe you or someone else is suffering with heat exhaustion, move them to a cool place, get them to lie down and give them plenty of fluids to drink
Boots pharmacist Janky Raja
Stay connected
Make sure to keep listening to the weather forecast and news so you are aware of any changes to the incoming weather.
Whilst it’s important to look after yourself, try to check in on any elderly relatives or neighbours, or anyone less able to take care of themselves in the heat to make sure they’re coping.
Listen to your body
If you start to feel unwell with symptoms such as a headache, dizziness, excessive sweating or a fast pulse, you may be experiencing heat exhaustion.
If left untreated, heat exhaustion can turn into heatstroke, which is much more serious.
If you believe you or someone else is suffering with heat exhaustion, move them to a cool place, get them to lie down and give them plenty of fluids to drink.
If their condition doesn’t improve after 30 minutes call 111.
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