A doctor has issued a warning to people over some of the lesser-known consequences of extreme heat.
A summer heatwave has hit the UK as soaring temperatures across the country have prompted the Met Office to issue a rare amber and red heat warning. The alert started on Sunday at 1am and will remain in force tonight until 11.59pm.
Forecasters expect sweltering conditions on Merseyside today as temperatures could rise to 34C. While sweating, increased thirst and sleepless nights are common symptoms in the extreme heat, health experts have explained some of the more unusual symptoms people could experience.
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Nosebleeds
The medical director of Cosmedics said it is not uncommon for people to suffer nosebleeds in the heatwave. Dr Ross Perry added: "Dry air irritates and dries out the nasal membrane, causing crusts in the nose channels, which can be itchy, especially at night, and then bleeds if you're scratching, causing further irritation and potential nosebleeds."
Dr Perry warned it is more common in the elderly, pregnant women and children and urged people to seek medical attention if the problem is "happening all too often". Dr Perry also explained what people should do if they suffer a nosebleed in the extreme heat.
He said: "Sit or stand upright and pinch your nose just above the nostrils for 10 minutes or so. Try to lean forward and breathe through your mouth. An ice pack placed at the bridge of the nose will also help."
Breathlessness
Dr Perry also said dehydration could cause breathlessness. He said: "This can dry out the nasal passage, bronchial tubes and lungs, and leave us feeling breathless.
"Also, take into account, hot air holds more water vapours than cool air, resulting in less oxygen and higher humidity." He recommends taking caution when exercising, staying hydrated and avoiding the midday heat as a minimum.
He said: "With breathing problems such as asthma, people do need to take more care. If breathlessness continues, then book an appointment with your GP, to rule out any underlying problems."
Upset stomach
Dr Perry said extreme heat could result in a whole host of tummy troubles. He added: "Stomach bugs and intestinal infections can be rife, and people who suffer from IBS may also find the heatwave exacerbates symptoms.
"Firstly, diarrhoea could be a sign of heat exhaustion, which can be incredibly dangerous. Make sure you're drinking plenty of water, and if you have any other symptoms of feeling unwell - including feeling dizzy and confused - you must speak to your doctor."
Dr Perry also explained dehydration can also cause an IBS flare up. He added: "When we lose electrolytes such as sodium and potassium, it is likely to have more of an effect on IBS sufferers, worsening symptoms."
And finally, be careful with how you store and reheat high risk foods: "Eating leftover BBQ foods during hot weather can also cause stomach problems if the food has been left out for a prolonged period of time, or hasn't been cooked properly."
Fungal infections
Dr Perry said fungal infections such as Athlete's foot, can be worse during a heatwave, due to the increasing warmth and moisture. The medical expert explained it is important to opt for cotton or breathable socks, and change them regularly.
He added: "Better still, wear sandals and make sure feet aren't neglected when you shower or bath - exfoliating the feet is also a good way of getting rid of dead, flaky skin. If you're suffering, head to your local pharmacy, where you will be able to source a treatment to help."
Swollen hands and feet
Dr Perry said it can be quite common for fingers, toes, hands and feet to swell in the heat. Called 'heat edema', it's caused by either internal or external exposure to heat. Generally not considered dangerous, it indicates an imbalance in fluids and electrolytes.
He said: "You can reduce the symptoms by making sure you're hydrated and sitting somewhere cool, which will reduce your body temperature. If, however, this is becoming more and more regular, and happening when you're not being exposed to heat, then it's best to seek advice from your GP."
Itchy rash
The co-founder of The Independent Pharmacy explained people could break out in a red rash due to the extreme heat, which presents as a dense cluster of tiny inflamed bumps, or a large raised patch. Scott McDougall said: "Your skin can have a reaction to the sun, known as a polymorphic light eruption.
"The rash typically appears 30 minutes after exposure to the sun and can last for up to two weeks. Episodes are most likely to occur after a long period of having little to no sun exposure. Therefore, you should experience fewer symptoms as the summer progresses."
McDougall urged people not not to scratch the rash to prevent scarring. He said: "To calm the itching, get out of the sun and dab the affected area with a cool, damp cloth. Also, drink plenty of water and take an over-the-counter antihistamine, like Piriton tablets, or syrup if you struggle with the tablet form."
Bad breath
Mr McDougall said bad breath is one of the little-known side-effects of not drinking enough water when it's hot outside." He added "When dehydrated, your mouth becomes parched and cannot produce enough saliva to wash away food particles. There is not enough water or acid to neutralise cells growing on your tongue."
Mr McDougall said if people are drinking fizzy drinks to cool down, you're feeding the bacteria in your mouth lots of sugar, which can contribute to the build-up of smelly dental plaque. He added: "The best way to avoid bad breath in a heatwave, is to drink lots of water."
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