Brits warned to ‘stay inside’ as Saharan dust could pose serious health risk

The UK has hit some very high temperatures this week.As predicted, we had our hottest day of the year yesterday, Thursday 8 September. Highs of 32.6C beat the previous record of 32.2C seen on 10 June. As health experts warn Brits to stay cool and hydrated during this intense weather, there is another health concern that people in the UK should be aware of.

Saharan dust has been blowing over the UK as temperatures rise. It has created some beautiful sunsets, because it makes the sky look more red than usual, but for those struggling with asthma it can be dangerous.

Who is at risk?

According to Asthma + Lung UK, the dust could increase the risk of severe reactions in those with asthma or other breathing difficulties.

It is likely to worsen common symptoms such as shortness of breath and coughing, but it could lead to hospitalisation in serious cases. Dr Andy Whittamore, clinical lead at the charity, explained to The Sun that ‘Saharan dust could pose a serious risk to people living with a lung condition, such as asthma’.

He goes on to explain that ‘toxic air’ can intensity symptoms and ‘cause an asthma attack or flare up of their lung condition’.

Read more:Here's how to sleep like a baby during a heatwave

What should you do if you have a lung condition?

Dr Whittamore suggests that you should stay indoors when possible, and especially when there is a high concentration of dust in the air. He says that even when feeling fine, ‘if you have a preventer or maintenance inhaler, you should take it every day as prescribed’:

You should also keep your reliever or rescue inhaler with you in case of emergencies, so you can use it quickly if your symptoms get worse.

Read more:

⋙ Students aren't doing this simple thing leaving them at risk of severe conditions, health experts reveal

⋙ Weather alert: UK to be hit by ‘heat dome’, here’s how long the heatwave may last

Sources used:

The Sun: DARK CLOUD Urgent alert as Saharan dust cloud covering the UK could prove deadly – and millions told ‘stay inside’

Metro: Saharan sand sparks urgent warning as ‘toxic’ dust cloud sweeps UK

Asthma + Lung UK