Deaths caused by alcohol are at a record high in England, and Alcohol Awareness Week, taking place from July 7th, is aiming to promote responsible drinking habits this summer.
In light of this, and as the temperature rises, Dr Rupa Parmar, GP and Medical Director of Midland Health, is sharing why it’s so important to keep safe while drinking in the heat.
“Combatting dehydration during the summer is key to minimising your risk of heat exhaustion. Dehydration can cause headaches, dizziness, and confusion and is much more common if you’ve been drinking alcohol.
“Alcohol also limits your body’s ability to regulate its temperature, increasing your risk of heat exhaustion. Headaches, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability, and an increased body temperature are all signs of heat exhaustion. Get out of the heat, stay hydrated, and use cold compresses to help cool down; symptoms should improve within 30 minutes.
“Heatstroke is a form of heat exhaustion which occurs when your body is completely unable to regulate temperature. Someone with heatstroke will experience the signs of heat exhaustion, as well as confusion, a rapid heart rate and breathing, or even seizures. Quick intervention is necessary to prevent serious complications, as in some cases, it can be deadly.
“Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it increases urine production. Your water intake needs to be much higher when drinking in the heat, so aim for 3 litres of water daily. Having water in between drinks also helps you stay hydrated and may even alleviate hangover symptoms the next day.
“Because it’s a diuretic, alcohol can also dry out skin and make your skin more prone to the sun’s UV rays, increasing your risk of sunburn. Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses, try to stay in the shade as much as possible, and use a high SPF sunscreen to protect your skin.
“If you’re thinking of cooling off in the water this summer, it’s important to know that as alcohol affects behaviour and lowers inhibitions, it increases your risk of drowning. Your reactions are slower, and your muscle ability is limited, so the sensible thing to do is to avoid swimming if you’ve been drinking.
“The best way to stay safe when drinking in the sun is to drink slowly, in moderation, and to keep hydrated. Understanding your tolerance level, drinking responsibly, and being aware of the symptoms of heatstroke are also crucial in keeping yourself and others well.”
For more information on safe consumption, read the UK government’s guidelines on alcohol limits.