Preventing heat stroke in seniors
This column is written by experts in the aging, care giving, home health, hospice and home care fields to keep you informed about growing older.
As the temperatures continue to rise in San Diego, the risk of developing heat stroke increases—particularly for seniors. A recent study at the University of Chicago Medical Center found that 40 percent of heat-related fatalities in the United States were among people over the age of 65.
There are several reasons for this. As we age, our bodies become less resilient to changes in temperature. In addition, many members of the aging population may take prescription medications that can inhibit their ability to regulate temperature or perspiration, and they are more likely to have a chronic medical condition that changes normal body responses to heat.
Heat stroke is the most dangerous heat-related illness. It is important to know the signs of heat stroke. The first signal is bright red, hot to touch, dry skin which means you are not sweating. As your body’s natural cooling mechanism, sweat begins to evaporate as the temperatures begin to rise and you are not able to keep as cool.
Typically, in heat stroke related situations, body temperatures rise to 106 degrees Fahrenheit or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Dizziness, nausea, headache, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, fainting, increased fatigue and breathing problems are all additional indications of heat exhaustion.
In order to stay safe during the hot weather this summer, follow these simple guidelines.
1. Stay indoors during the hottest heat of the day. If you can, leave the house before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m.
2. Drink plenty of water. Even if you are not thirsty, continue to drink liquids and be sure to avoid caffeine or alcohol which can contribute to dehydration. If your doctor has you on water pills or limits the amount of fluid you should drink, consult him and ask how much you should drink when the weather is hot. Also, avoid cold liquids because they can cause cramps.
3. Wear the proper clothes. Dress in light-colored, loosefitting clothes in cotton if possible, as it breathes better. Wear a wide-brimmed hat if outside.
4. If you are without air conditioning, find cooler places to spend the day. Visit the library, mall, movie theater or senior center to escape the heat.
5. Stay in contact with friends and family. During extremely hot weather, have a friend, neighbor, or family member visit or check in twice a day to look for signs of heat-related illnesses.
6. Take it easy. Avoid exercise during high temperatures. Rest and take a cool shower or bath.
7. Look for the warning signs of heat-related illness, and if you see any, be sure to call 911 immediately.
If you or someone else notices signs of heat-related stress and exhaustion, immediately call for medical assistance and get them to a shady area if outside. Next, work on cooling their temperature with a cool bath or shower, spraying them down with cool water from a hose, or fanning them quickly. If the ambulance is delayed, call the hospital emergency room for further instructions.
Seniors who have heat exhaustion or heat stroke are much more sensitive to hot conditions for about a week afterward. It is best not to exercise too hard, and avoid hot weather. Consult your doctor when you can return to your normal activities.
Marla Bryant, RN, BSN, is the Clinical Admissions Manager at Mission Healthcare. You may contact Mission at (888) 871-0766 or firstname.lastname@example.org. Get in touch with Marla at email@example.com.
Marla Bryant, RN, BSN, is the Clinical Admissions Manager at Mission Healthcare. You may contact Mission at (888) 871-0766 or firstname.lastname@example.org email@example.com