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Temperatures are rising in Britain again over the coming days, with highs in the mid-30s expected in the South during the weekend.
Last month’s heatwave caused severe disruption across the country and although this week’s heat is not expected to be quite as severe an amber warning has been issued by the Met office in southern England and eastern Wales.
Plenty of people enjoy the sunshine. However, more vulnerable people face serious health risks from the heat. This includes those diagnosed with lung conditions, including asbestos-related lung conditions such as asbestosis, pleural thickening and lung cancers including mesothelioma.
The health effects of hot weather for those with lung conditions
Hot weather can be dangerous for everyone, but the effects are often more severe for those with pre-existing conditions.
Sweat is the body’s natural response to heat and is intended to cool us down. However, the dehydration caused by increased sweating can be especially dangerous for those with lung conditions. It can cause the lungs and airways to dry out and become irritated or inflamed, making it less easy to breathe comfortably.
Hot weather is also often accompanied by higher humidity (more water in the air). Humid air has less oxygen and is harder to breathe, meaning that those who already struggle with breathing may find it more difficult still.
Safety advice for the heat
Novum Law’s Phillip Gower is a specialist asbestos disease lawyer with over 25 years’ experience supporting those with lung conditions. He says:
“The heat is worrying for many, but especially for those at greater risk for health reasons, including people with lung conditions. The British Lung Foundation has published a blog titled ‘Looking after your lungs in hot weather’ with some excellent tips on how those with lung conditions can keep themselves safe in the heat.
“Hot weather isn’t always a bad or dangerous thing, but over the last few years we’ve seen increasing numbers of intense heatwaves which pose threats to people’s livelihoods, homes and health. This makes it especially important to raise awareness of what we can do to protect ourselves.
“At Novum Law, we see the serious effects asbestos-related lung conditions have on our clients even in more temperate weather, and understand that in these heatwave conditions extra precautions must be taken so that the most vulnerable do not end up facing severe health consequences.”
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related lung condition, you may be able to claim compensation. To find out more about how Novum Law’s expert team of asbestos lawyers can help on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis, call us on 0800 884 0777, email info@novumlaw.com or complete our online enquiry form for a free, no obligation chat.
