An A&E doctor has cautioned against common heatwave practices that could actually heighten the risk of heatstroke, as the UK braces for temperatures up to 40 degrees Celsius. Dr Ahmed, known as the 'healthcare Gordon Ramsay' on TikTok with 588,000 followers, shared advice on staying safe during the extreme heat.
Taking Off Your Shirt Increases Heat Absorption
Dr Ahmed warned that removing your shirt in direct sunlight is counterproductive. 'Doing that will expose you to direct sunlight, direct radiation, you will absorb more heat,' he explained. Instead, he recommends wearing a simple cotton layer to protect skin from the sun. Government guidance supports this, advising lightweight, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing, including long sleeves, trousers, or long skirts, along with wide-brimmed hats.
Jumping Into Cold Water Can Be Deadly
Another common but dangerous remedy is plunging into cold water. Dr Ahmed cautioned that sudden temperature drops can cause muscles to seize up, leading to drowning. According to the RNLI, water around the UK and Ireland averages 12 degrees Celsius, even in summer, triggering cold water shock. This can increase heart attack risk and cause involuntary gasping, potentially inhaling water. Safer alternatives include spraying a cool mist or applying ice packs or wet towels to armpits, back, or thighs. However, Dr Ahmed warned against rapid cooling, which can cause shivering and further heat increase, or even hypothermia in heatstroke patients.
Seek Help and Monitor Symptoms
Dr Ahmed emphasised the importance of having someone watch over you while cooling down and contacting emergency services if needed. 'Most important: seek help. Somebody to watch over you, somebody to contact emergency services while you cool down to make sure you are safe,' he said.
UK Heatwave Red Warning
The Met Office has issued a rare red warning for extreme heat covering southern England and the South West, where temperatures in the shade are expected to exceed 37 degrees Celsius, possibly reaching 40 degrees. Fifty areas across the East Midlands, East of England, London and South East, South West, Wales, and West Midlands are affected.
