Heatwave Health Risks

A heatwave is defined as at least two consecutive days of high temperatures with no significant dip in temperature at night. The latter aspect is a key feature of a heatwave, as it prevents the body from cooling off when the sun goes down. The government has announced a 60% chance of a heatwave in England and Wales, with temperatures in Easy Anglia expected to reach 31ºC during the day, and approximately 18°C at nighttime.

The worst heatwave of recent times occurred in August of 2003. The exceedingly high temperatures led to 200 excess deaths in the UK that year. It is also known that the majority of deaths resulting from high temperatures come as a result of respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.

The hot weather can be dangerous for several reasons. These include the onset of heatstroke, which prevents the body from regulating its own temperature. This causes dizziness, confusion, and fainting. For many, maintaining a good level of hydration and avoiding over exposure to the sun during the day will prevent any serious harm. However, for the elderly, very young, and those with existing medical conditions, extra precautions should be taken to ensure a safe summer.

General advice for everyone is the application of adequate amounts of suncream if you are exposed to the sun, but to avoid exposure whn possible. Staying cool indoors is a good idea; make sure windows are closed and blinds or curtains are shut when the temperatures outside are higher than those inside.

If you feel the need for some extra protection during the hot weather, perhaps health insurance would be a preferrable option, providing complete peace of mind should anything happen during the predicted heatwave, or at any time during the summer.

Prevention and preparation are the key factors in staying healthy in the coming months, and stocking up on supplies, including food, drinks, and medical supplies is an advisable action to take.