It may be hard to believe – or remember - but there was a heatwave in Europe during the summer of 2003, when more than 20,000 people ( many in France ) perished directly or indirectly as a result of excessive heat. One of the reasons for the heavy death toll was slow activation of the emergency system and inadequate response of healthcare personnel because of insufficient training. Another heatwave is possible, even in the UK.
• Heat exhaustion – body temperature above normal ( 37 / 98.6 ) to 40 / 104 degrees. Children, elderly, people with heart or kidney disease / diabetes, or binge drinkers are most at risk. Dehydration causes excessive sweating, nausea and weakness. With water and cooling they should soon recover. If not, they may progress to …
• Heatstroke – body temperature above 40 / 104 degrees. People become confused, breath rapidly and may lose consciousness. This is a medical emergency – the brain and other organs are damaged and they may die – call an ambulance ! Meantime, try to cool them and give cool water.
• Common sense precautions – such as those issued by the Philippines DOH – should help. Avoiding the sun and excessive physical exertion during the heat of the day, using sunscreen, protective clothing, taking plenty of cold non-alcoholic drinks, taking cool showers / baths and keeping the environment cool - are all worthwhile.
• http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/heat-ex...roduction.aspx
