Heatwave victims admitted to hospital (From Hampshire Chronicle)

Heatwave victims admitted to hospital

9:27am Thursday 2nd July 2009

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PATIENTS are being admitted to a Winchester hospital with dehydration because of the current heatwave.

Temperatures in the South-East have been peaking at a Mediterranean-like 32C this week, which is roughly 90F in old money.

The NHS originally classed it as a “level two” heatwave, and raised it to a three earlier today (Thursday), with four being the most severe.

As a result, health chiefs are advising residents to do what they can to keep cool and avoid heatstroke.

However, doctors at the Royal Hampshire County Hospital, in Romsey Road, are still seeing the effects of the current heatwave.

Dr Andrew Oswell, consultant physician in medicine and elderly care, said: “The hot weather does lead to increased admissions into our accident and emergency department and we have seen several frail, elderly patients admitted with dehydration.

“Dehydration is a problem in itself, but can also lead to dizziness, which can cause falls and these can be very dangerous for the elderly.

“In addition, the hot weather does tend to encourage more people to get out in the sunshine and this can lead to an increase in sporting injuries.

“The basic common sense rules apply – drink plenty of fluids in hot weather and try to stay safe when enjoying sports and leisure activities.”

The NHS advice includes shutting windows while the air outside is hot, then opening them during milder periods.

Staying in the coolest room in the house is also advised, along with drinking plenty of water or fruit juice and avoiding hot drinks and alcohol.

Dr Stuart Ward, clinical director of NHS Hampshire, said: “In a severe heatwave, you may get dehydrated and your body may overheat.

“Keeping your home and yourself cool and drinking lots of fluids will reduce the risk of feeling unwell. If a heatwave is forecast, try to plan your day in a way that will allow you to stay out of direct heat.”

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