Stay cool when you’re feeling hot, hot, hot…

December 22, 2015

Stay cool when you’re feeling hot, hot, hot…

Summer has kicked off with a scorcher.

With yesterday’s temperatures reaching well into the mid-30s, health officials want to remind people that extreme heat can be deadly.

Dr Alistair Humphrey, Canterbury Medical Officer of Health, says NIWA’s prediction of an El Nino summer seem to be on the mark, with hot windy weather already basking the eastern regions, including Canterbury.

“Yesterday was exceptionally hot and while it’s great to enjoy these summer days, if we get several consecutive days at extreme temperatures, it can pose a number of health risks or can even be deadly for some people and animals.”

Dr Humphrey says people need to protect themselves from the sun and slip, slop, slap and wrap, drink plenty of water and stay out of direct heat wherever possible.

“Also make sure you check on any family, friends and neighbours who spend much of their time alone,” Dr Humphrey says.

“Make sure you’re pets have plenty of shade and fresh cool water available at all times and never leave pets or children alone in closed vehicles.”

Dr Humphrey says to phone your usual General Practice Team if you, or someone you know, starts to show any signs of a heat related illness.

The three key stages indicating the onset of heat illness are heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, he says.

Heat Cramps occur when a person sweats profusely and drinks lots of water but does not adequately replace electrolytes lost due to perspiration.

“Drinking large quantities of water to quench thirst can dilute the body’s fluids as the body continues to lose vital mineral salts through perspiration. When the body’s salt levels fall low enough, painful muscle cramps may occur.”

Dr Humphrey says heat exhaustion starts with symptoms similar to heat cramps, with additional indications such as heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, skin that feels cold, pale and clammy, possible fainting and vomiting.

Heat stroke occurs when the body fails to regulate its core temperature. As the individual’s body temperature escalates above 40.5°C, victims become confused, delirious, and often unconscious.

“For anyone experiencing any of these symptoms it’s important to seek medical advice or in an emergency phone 111.”

ENDS

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