With the constant rising temperatures, many people are worried about their health and wellbeing. Heat related illness have become the main source of concern for many people, as they look for better ways to navigate in the heat. Different countries have published heat guidelines to ensure citizens do not fall ill. It is very important to know the signs of and symptoms of these heat-illnesses as they could save your life! One such symptom could be a major cause of concern. The National Health Services UK explains that people who are experiencing heatstroke need to be on alert. If the symptoms do not get better withing 30 minutes, you must call for help. When to Seek Emergency Help According to the NHS, if someone shows signs of heatstroke and is still unwell after 30 minutes of resting in a cool place, being cooled down, and drinking fluids, you should contact emergency services. While heat exhaustion often improves on its own within 30 minutes of cooling down, if it progresses to heatstroke, it becomes a medical emergency. The NHS explicitly states: "Call 999 now if you or someone else have signs of heatstroke, including still [being] unwell after 30 minutes of resting in a cool place, being cooled and drinking fluids." Heat Alert Issued for Parts of England This week, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued a yellow heat alert for certain areas of England, warning that even moderate temperatures could be dangerous. The Met Office predicts temperatures could reach up to 30°C in the East of England, East Midlands, London, and Southeast regions. The UKHSA emphasized that "whilst temperatures may not seem too high for the general population for now, data from UKHSA shows that even at these forecasted temperatures, vulnerable groups and health care services can be impacted." Under the UKHSA and Met Office's Weather-Health alerting system, a yellow alert indicates potential impacts such as: Increased demand on healthcare services from vulnerable groups.A higher health risk for individuals over 65 years old or those with existing health conditions, like respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.Heat Exhaustion vs. Heatstroke It's crucial to understand the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke, as the latter requires immediate emergency attention. Signs of Heat Exhaustion include: TirednessDizzinessHeadacheFeeling sick or being sickExcessive sweating; skin may be pale and clammy or develop a heat rash (note: changes in skin color can be harder to see on brown and black skin)Cramps in the arms, legs, and stomachFast breathing or heartbeatA high temperatureFeeling very thirstyWeaknessIf these symptoms don't improve after 30 minutes of cooling down, it could be progressing to heatstroke.What to do for Heat Exhaustion (to prevent heatstroke)If someone is suffering from heat exhaustion, immediately move them to a cool place and remove any unnecessary clothing, such as jackets or socks. Encourage them to drink a sports or rehydration drink, or simply cool water. To help lower their body temperature, cool their skin by spraying or sponging them with cool water and fanning them. You can also apply cold packs, wrapped in a cloth, to their armpits or neck. To stay safe when it's hot, the UKHSA also recommends a few key things. Try to stay out of the sun between 11 am and 3 pm, which is usually the hottest part of the day. Keep your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun. If you do go outside, cover up with appropriate clothing, a hat, and sunglasses, seek shade, and remember to apply sunscreen often. Plan any physical activities like exercise or walking your dog for cooler times, such as the early morning or evening.