Tips to combat heat – Related problems
As we age, our ability to adequately respond to summer heat can become a serious problem. Here are some tips for helping older people avoid heat-related illnesses, known collectively as hyperthermia, during the summer months. The risk for hyperthermia is a combination of the outside temperature along with the general health and lifestyle of the individual. Health-related factors that may increase risk include. Age-related changes to the skin such as poor blood circulation and inefficient sweat glands. Heart, lung and kidney diseases, as well as any illness that causes general weakness or fever. High blood pressure or other conditions that require changes in diet. For example, people on salt-restricted diets may increase their risk. However, salt pills should not be used without first consulting a doctor. Heat stroke is an advanced form of hyperthermia that occurs when the body is overwhelmed by heat and unable to control its temperature. Someone with a body temperature above 104 degrees is likely suffering from heat stroke and may have symptoms of confusion, combativeness, strong rapid pulse, lack of sweating, dry flushed skin, faintness, staggering, possible delirium or coma. Seek immediate medical attention for a person with any of these symptoms, especially an older adult. Get the person out of the sun and into an air-conditioned or other cool place. Offer fluids such as water, fruit and vegetable juices, but avoid alcohol and caffeine.
Comments
Tell me what you're thinking...
and oh, if you want a pic to show with your comment, go get a gravatar!