Excess cold
Impact on health
Excessive cold can have a profound effect on health. Healthy indoor temperatures are around 21°C. There is small risk of health effects below 19°C. Below 16°C, the risks are increased for the elderly, including respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. Below 10°C there is a greater risk of hypothermia. Cardiovascular conditions (e.g. heart attacks and stroke) account for 50 per cent excess winter deaths. Respiratory diseases (e.g. ‘flu, pneumonia, bronchitis) account for another third. Excess cold can also cause an increase in blood pressure and reduce resistance to infection. This is because of the effect of cold air on the bronchial lining and immune system. It can worsen symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Causes
- Sleeping in a cold bedroom
- Poor insulation
- Poor central heating or inefficient heating system
- Excess damp
Prevention
- Appropriate insulation
- Appropriate, well maintained heating system
- Low level ventilation
- Suitable ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens
- Air bricks
- Double glazed windows
Excess Heat
Impact on health
Increase in thermal stress, cardio vascular strain and trauma, and increase in strokes. Mortality increases in temperatures over 25 degrees. Although not common, problems can occur in the UK.
Causes
- Lack of ventilation
- Thermal capacity of a smaller building
- Large areas of south facing glazing
Prevention
- Shuttering or blinds to large south facing windows
- Means of ventilation, natural or air conditioning
- Controlled heating system