By GB News (World News) | Created at 2026-06-21 12:49:59 | Updated at 2026-06-21 15:15:12
2 hours ago
The Met Office has extended its amber extreme heat warning to cover both Monday and Tuesday, with forecasters predicting temperatures could soar to between 36 and 37 degrees Celsius across parts of the country.
Britons are being urged to remain vigilant as the mercury rises, with health experts warning that such extreme conditions pose significant risks to vulnerable individuals.
From those managing chronic conditions to families enjoying the summer sunshine, understanding the dangers and knowing how to respond could prove essential over the coming days.
Robert Bradshaw, Superintendent Pharmacist at Oxford Online Pharmacy, has offered crucial guidance for those with elevated blood pressure during the sweltering conditions ahead.
Heat stroke poses the biggest threat during extreme temperatures
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"High temperatures and humidity can be a bad combination for anyone who suffers from high blood pressure, as the hot weather causes the heart to beat faster, circulating twice as much blood around the body," he explained.
Certain medications, including beta blockers and diuretics, may compromise the body's capacity to maintain proper hydration or cope with intense heat.
Mr Bradshaw recommends that individuals with hypertension consume ample fluids, seek cool environments, and don protective headwear when outdoors.
Regular monitoring of blood pressure throughout the heatwave is essential, he stressed, adding that symptoms such as severe fatigue, confusion, rapid heartbeat, excessive perspiration, headaches, limb swelling or nausea warrant immediate emergency medical attention.
Dehydration represents another serious concern when temperatures climb, particularly for those spending extended periods in direct sunlight.
Under normal circumstances, adults should consume between 1.5 and 2.5 litres of fluid daily, equivalent to roughly six to eight glasses, though this requirement increases substantially during hot weather as perspiration accelerates water loss.
"This can result in you feeling extra thirsty, tired or dizzy, or experience headaches, constipation or even nausea. Plus, you're likely to have dark, strong-smelling pee," Mr Bradshaw warned.
The pharmacist advised maintaining consistent fluid intake throughout the day, matching water consumption with other beverages, and restricting alcohol due to its diuretic properties.
Oral rehydration sachets containing electrolytes such as glucose, sodium and potassium can prove particularly beneficial, helping replenish lost salts and mitigate dehydration's effects.
Warmer weather inevitably brings increased insect activity, and with more people venturing outdoors, the likelihood of stings and bites rises considerably.
Such incidents typically manifest as a brief, sharp sensation followed by localised swelling, though Mr Bradshaw advised checking the affected area for any remnants of the insect before treatment.
Antihistamines can alleviate itching while steroid creams reduce inflammation, and repellents containing DEET offer effective protection against further encounters.
Should symptoms escalate to include dizziness, stomach pain, fever, swollen glands or allergic reactions, medical assistance should be sought without delay.
Prickly heat, caused by excessive perspiration irritating the skin, presents as clusters of itchy red spots commonly appearing on the neck, chest, armpits and waistline.
Loose cotton garments help prevent this condition, while pharmacists can recommend treatments including antihistamine tablets, hydrocortisone cream and calamine lotion.
Heat stroke poses perhaps the gravest threat during extreme temperatures, developing within hours when physical exertion overwhelms the body's cooling mechanisms.
Those at heightened risk include individuals who are dehydrated, consuming alcohol, taking certain medications, including sedatives and heart drugs, or living with conditions such as cystic fibrosis or cardiac problems.
Hot weather causes twice as much blood to circulate around the body
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Warning signs encompass delirium, weakness, flushed skin, nausea and vomiting, with untreated cases potentially resulting in brain swelling, organ failure or nerve damage.
Prevention centres on limiting physical activity, staying hydrated with water or sports drinks, seeking shade and wearing lightweight clothing.
"While you're waiting for assistance, apply ice packs to the neck, groin and armpits, immerse them in cool water, encourage them to drink water and monitor their breathing," Mr Bradshaw advised.
Crucially, aspirin and paracetamol should be avoided during heat stroke episodes.
