30/07/2026
With the weather continuing to stay nice and toasty, we thought we'd take a little look at heat related illnesses, how to spot them, and what steps you need to take should you suspect anyone suffering with a heat related illness.
In most cases, our bodies can regulate heat and cold very well.
The body regulates temperature by; shivering / moving somewhere warm / conversion of food / exercise / sweating / respiration / constriction of blood vessels to name a few.
What is a heat related illnesses?
When the body gets too hot, excessive sweating leads to a loss of salt and water, which can lead to illness, and in some cases, can be fatal. Some drugs, such as ecstasy, can affect the way the body regulates temperature.
Heat Exhaustion - This is not as serious as Heat Stroke. You need to cool the patient, remove them from the heat source (asking them to sit in the shade) and encourage them to lie down with their legs raised.
Signs and Symptoms - Confusion / headache / dizziness / sweating with pale, clammy skin / cramping in the arms, legs or abdomen / rapid weakening pulse and breathing.
Heat Stroke - This is when the body's thermostat fails and causes the body to become dangerously overheated. This can be a result of taking drugs (such as ecstasy) or after prolonged exposure to heat, or a high fever. The patient should be moved quickly to a cool place and cooled using a towel or sheet (not a blanket!) Which should be kept wet by continually pouring water over it. Call 999 immediately.
Signs and Symptoms - confusion / headache / dizziness / restlessness and discomfort / hot, flushed and dry skin (there will be no sweat) / full bounding pulse / and their level of response will deteriorate rapidly.
While anyone can suffer from either heat related illness, the most vulnerable are young children and the elderly, so keep an eye on the vulnerable members of your families, community and neighbours.
Remember to drink plenty and remain hydrated, wear a hat and protective clothing, and make sure you're wearing appropriate sun screen (factor 50+), and move into the shade where possible.
Enjoy the sun sensibly and responsibly. Happy summer! βοΈ