In the past 24 hours, UK Google searches for 'heat stroke symptoms' have surged by 117% as the UK experienced highs of 35C°.*
With UKHSA issuing amber heat-health alerts across much of England,* Dr Corné Hurter, Medical Director for Services and Delivery at AXA Health insurance, has revealed four symptoms of heat stroke not to ignore, as well as five ways to maximise sun protection this summer.
Four symptoms of heat stroke to never ignore
Dr Corné Hurter shares four symptoms of heat stroke that Brits should be aware of during this year's heatwaves.
1. High body temperature
“Heat stroke occurs when the body can no longer regulate its temperature effectively, which can cause it to rise to dangerous levels. A very high temperature indicates that the body’s normal cooling mechanisms are failing and should never be ignored.”
2. Rapid heart rate
“When the body is under heat stress, the heart works more to circulate blood and release the heat. Therefore, this can lead to a noticeable, rapid pounding of the heart. This, accompanied by dizziness, weakness, or shortness of breath, may be a warning sign that the body is struggling to cope with extreme heat.”
3. Altered mental state
“Confusion, irritability, agitation, or unusual behaviour can all be signs that heat is affecting our mental state. The signs of a person experiencing this can lead to confusion, disorientation, or an inability to think clearly.”
4. Hot and flushed skin
“People with heat stroke often have skin that feels hot, flushed, or unusually warm. The skin may also be dry or sweaty, depending on the stage of heat stroke and the individual’s response to heat. This symptom reflects the body’s inability to regulate temperature properly.”
Five ways to stay safe during the heatwave, according to a doctor
1. Stay Hydrated
Dr Hurter comments, “Staying hydrated helps the body regulate its temperature through sweating and circulation. Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day, even when you do not feel thirsty, is essential in the heat.”
“Avoid consuming excessive alcohol and caffeine, as this can result in more dehydration.”
2. Limit outdoor exposure
Dr Hurter reveals, “One of the best ways to protect yourself from the sun's harmful UV rays is to find shade under trees, umbrellas, canopies or indoors, especially during peak hours.”
“UV rays are invisible and cannot be felt on the skin (the heat of the sun comes from infrared rays instead). UV rays penetrate deeply into our cells, causing changes that can lead to sunburn, skin ageing, eye damage and skin cancer.”*
Dr Hurter shares that a simple way to find out when the sun's rays are at their strongest is to look at your shadow: ‘If your shadow is shorter than your height, this means that the sun's UV rays are strong and you should seek shade and protection from the sun. You can also check weather apps to see the UV index in your location.”
3. Wear loose clothing
Dr Hurter states that “Keeping covered up is another great way to protect your body from the sun. Tight or heavy garments can trap heat and make it harder for sweat to evaporate, so where possible opt for light materials with a close weave, as the closer the weave, the more the material will protect your skin from UV rays.”
“Where possible, opt for clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) number on the label. A UPF label indicates that the material offers an effective level of protection against UV rays.”
To maximise protection, Dr Hurter recommends:
- Wear long sleeves – Long-sleeved shirts offer more protection than short-sleeved shirts.
- Avoid wet clothing – Damp fabric loses UV protection, so always change out of wet clothes.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat – It shields not just your face, but also your neck and ears.
4. Pick the right sunglasses
Dr Hurter comments, “As well as damaging the skin, overexposure to UV rays can cause damage to your eyes. According to the Association of Optometrists, 40% of adults are unaware that UV rays can contribute to cataracts, macular degeneration, and even eye cancer.* Therefore, it's essential that you protect your eyes from the sun.”
Dr Hurter reveals that wearing the correct sunglasses is one of the best ways to protect your eyes this summer. Ensure that your sunglasses have at least one of the following marks:
- The CE Mark
- A UV 400 label
- A statement that the sunglasses offer 100% UV protection
Dr Hurter continues, “The style of sunglasses can also impact the degree of sun protection; for instance, larger framed sunglasses or wrap-around sunglasses offer more protection than small frames such as aviator sunglasses.”
5. Apply sunscreen effectively
Dr Hurter shares, “Sunscreen is one of the best ways to protect your skin from the sun; however, it will not completely protect you from sun damage, and it is not a way to spend longer in the sun. Sunscreen should always be used alongside seeking shade and covering up.“
“Sunscreen should always be applied to clean, dry skin as it will be able to absorb properly and offer optimal protection.”
“Sunscreen needs to be reapplied at least every 2 hours or more frequently if you’re sweating, exercising, or swimming. As no sunscreen is completely waterproof, it will wear off after exposure to water. Even water-resistant sunscreens, which are designed to remain effective for a certain period of time after water exposure, need to be regularly applied.”
Dr Hurter advises checking for these three things on the sunscreen bottle before applying:
- SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 30 and higher - SPF 30 blocks around 97% of UVB rays and SPF 50 blocks around 98%, so the higher the SPF number, the better.
- Look for broad-spectrum protection - If the label says broad-spectrum protection, then the sunscreen protects your skin against both UVA and UVB rays
- Expiry date - Most sunscreens have a shelf life of two to three years, so ensure your sunscreen has not expired before you use it. Active ingredients can become less effective, so checking the expiry date is vital.”
Methodology
*GLIMPSE Google Trends UK Search Data - correct as of 09/07/2026
*https://weather.metoffice.gov.uk/observations/weather-extremes
*https://ukhsa-dashboard.data.gov.uk/weather-health-alerts/heat
*https://www.axahealth.co.uk/staying-healthy/articles/health-faqs/top-tips-for-sun-protection/
