As the nationwide high-temperature warning is extended into Saturday, and the mercury continues to rise across the Continent, it can be easy to bask in the summer temperatures.
But these high temperatures can also pose a risk.
Several hospitals in Europe have declared critical incidents. The London Ambulance Service responded to its highest number of life-threatening emergencies, and emergency services had reached full capacity as the number of serious heat-related illnesses rose.
Although similar demands have not been placed on the health service in Ireland, as temperatures didn’t reach such heights, experts said it is still important to take measures to stay safe and healthy during the heatwave.
RM Block
How does heat affect the body?
Dr Suzanne Kelly, deputy medical director of the Irish College of GPs, said the first thing is “you dehydrate much faster”.
“Your fluids are balanced very carefully in your body. You’re losing fluid off your skin and you don’t feel it. If you’re young and healthy, you’re going to feel thirsty,” she said.
“If you’re older, those responses are blunted. You’re less aware that you’re dehydrating and then you become confused. We use a lot of diuretics to control blood pressure. They will continue to force fluids and electrolytes through your kidneys and they can’t adapt; they can’t retain that fluid.”
Kelly added the heat also puts additional pressure on your organs, and there is typically an increase in cardiac events during these periods.
“In order to maintain your body temperature, everything has to work harder,” she added.
Should I be concerned about heat exhaustion?
According to Kelly, heat exhaustion is a very real thing and members of the public should listen to their bodies for any symptoms.
“What you are physically able to do at 20 degrees is very different from what you’re able to do at 30 degrees,” she added. “You will find you’re more tired in the heat.”
Who is most vulnerable in high temperatures?
Older people, babies and people with intellectual disabilities should be particularly cared for during this time, Kelly said, as they may not be aware or are unable to say they are overheating, dehydrating or undereating.
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What should I do to protect myself and others?
Hydration is very key, the Cork-based doctor said, adding that electrolytes could be beneficial.
People should also avoid intense outdoor exercise during the middle of the day as it can increase pressure on the body, she added.
For children and babies, it is recommended to keep them out of the sun during the hottest hours of the day.
“You see people walking babies at midday in prams, that’s not appropriate. There’s too much heat insulation inside a car seat and a pram, so they’re already sitting in their own heat,” she said.
“The other thing you see is a blanket over the pram to protect them from direct sunlight. But that’s trapping all the heat inside that pram area and it’s really not safe for a young child.”
For older people, it’s important to ensure they’re continuing to have fluids, food and they’re not sleeping under heavy duvets or pyjamas.
She also recommended speaking with a pharmacist or GP if feeling unwell, as they will be best placed to advise what medication would be best to ensure your symptoms are helped and not worsened.
How do I cool down in the home?
When inside, be sure to switch off lights and appliances when not in use, as these generate heat.
During the day, keep windows closed and curtains drawn. At night, when the temperature drops, keep windows open to stay cool while you sleep.
How much sun cream should I use?
It is widely known that between 11am and 4pm are generally the hottest hours of the day. Health authorities recommend not being outside during these hours.
However, if it is unavoidable, it is very important to continue to top up the sun cream.
The HSE recommends you regularly apply a broad-spectrum water-resistant sun cream. Broad spectrum means the sunscreen protects against ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can damage the skin.
Adults should use an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30 and children should use an SPF 50.
This should be applied 20 minutes before you go into the sun, reapply every two hours if you’re in the sun and be topped up any time you get out of the water to ensure protection.
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