Advice to stay cool in the warm weather (From Southend Standard)

Advice to stay cool in the warm weather

9:31am Friday 9th July 2010

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ADVICE for how to stay cool during the summer heatwave has been issued by the NHS.

With the warm weather set to continue NHS South East Essex have issued some information to people in the South East to try and help them avoid sunburn, heatstroke and other heat-related health problems.

Tips such as avoiding going out between 11am and 3pm, take cool showers or baths and drink regularly even if you do not feel thirsty - water or fruit juice are best.

NHS Direct has received over 4,000 heat-related calls nationally since the middle of June. The top reasons for calling were heat exhaustion, insect bites and stings, sun burn, fainting, breathing difficulties and hay fever.

Helen Young, Chief Nurse at NHS Direct said: “We would recommend people follow advice on how to prevent heat-related health problems as most symptoms are really easy to avoid if you take sensible precautions.

“Our nurses and trained health advisors are ready to advise patients on the best ways to treat any heat-related conditions. In the majority of cases, NHS Direct can provide advice so that people can manage their heat-related symptoms at home or with help from their local pharmacist, meaning that they do not have to go and see their GP or attend A&E.”

NHS Direct is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 0845 46 47 or going to www.nhs.uk/nhsdirect.

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