THE HSE has warned people to watch out for the little-known signs of heatstroke that they may notice when they are tired.
Met Eireann revealed that temperatures will soar to 30C in Ireland today, the public is reminded to stay safe in the sun and watch out for vulnerable people.
As Ireland is battling against the heatwave, it’s important to remember that higher temperatures can have a huge impact on our health and wellbeing, with the risk of heat exhaustion.
The Health Service Executive said: “Heat exhaustion is not usually serious if you can cool down within 30 minutes.
“If it turns into heatstroke, it needs to be treated as an emergency.”
Anyone can get heatstroke or heat exhaustion, especially the vulnerable group, including the elderly and people with long-term health conditions like heart problems or diabetes.
Children are also particularly prone to heatstroke or heat exhaustion, and people are urged to keep an eye on the vulnerable group of people.
The health officials shared nine signs of heat exhaustion to watch out for while the temperatures soar:
- a headache
- dizziness and confusion
- loss of appetite and feeling sick
- heat rash
- excessive sweating and pale, clammy skin – a change in skin colour can be harder to see on brown and black skin
- cramps in the arms, legs and stomach
- fast breathing or a fast pulse
- a high temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or above
- being very thirsty
They pointed out that the symptoms are often the same in adults and children, but children may become irritable and sleepy.
If someone is showing signs of heat exhaustion, they need to be cooled down and given fluids.
It is recommended to move them to a cool place and remove all unnecessary clothing, like a jacket or socks.
Ensure that they drink plenty of water or a rehydration drink and cool their skin using cool water and a fan – cold packs around the armpits or neck are also recommended.
Stay with them until they’re feeling better; they should start to cool down and feel better within 30 minutes.
However, the health officials urges people to seek urgent medical attention if you or someone else has any signs of heatstroke, such as:
- feeling unwell after 30 minutes of resting in a cool place and drinking plenty of water
- not sweating even while feeling too hot
- a very high temperature of 40 degrees Celsius or above
- fast breathing or shortness of breath
- feeling confused
- a fit (seizure)
- loss of consciousness
- not being responsive
Heatstroke can be very serious if not treated quickly.
HOW TO PREVENT IT?
There’s a high risk of heat exhaustion or heatstroke during hot weather or exercise.
And it is important to stay hydrated, especially for babies, children, and people age 65 and over, who are more at risk of dehydration.
Tips that can help prevent heat exhaustion or heatstroke:
- drink plenty of cold drinks, especially when exercising
- take cool baths or showers
- wear light coloured, loose clothing
- sprinkle water over your skin or clothes
- avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm
- avoid excess alcohol
- avoid extreme exercise
