For many of us summertime means long hot days, picnics, walks, the beach and taking a break from the indoors. But for some being in direct sunlight or heavily heated conditions this may pose a hazard of heat exhaustion or even heat stroke.
Individuals with high blood pressure or some heart conditions and people who take diuretics may be more sensitive to heat exposure. There are several reasons that senior adults are more prone to heat related illnesses than younger adults. Some of the reasons are; not adjusting well to changes in temperature, more chronic medical conditions, more likely to take medicine that impair the body's ability to regulate its temperature.
Watch for these symptoms of Heat Exhaustion:
Pale, clammy or flushed
Sweaty
Weak or tired
Dry mouth, thirsty
Light headed or dizzy
Muscle cramping
Headache
Increased body temperature
Nausea and vomiting
Fainting
Heat stroke is more serious and can cause death or permanent disability. Watch for these symptoms of Heat Stroke and seek emergency assistance immediately:
Mental confusion, delirium
Seizures or fainting
Hot dry skin red or bluish
No sweating
Fast pulse with deep breathing then shallow breaths and weak pulse
Dizzy
Body temperature of 104 or higher
First Aid for heat related stress:
Stay hydrated by drinking cool water or electrolyte drinks such as Gatorade or other sports drinks. Avoid alcohol and caffeine as well as extremely cold liquids.
Move out of the sun into a shady or air conditioned area and rest in a cool place.
Lay down and elevate the legs and feet higher than the head.
Loosen clothing.
Spray or sponge with cool water or soak towels in cool water and wrap around the body. Fan vigorously.
Put ice pack on the neck, under the arms and on the groin area.
Seek medical assistance.
If the challenges of family and career are making life overwhelming and difficult to care for a loved one in need of assistance, we can help. Today’s families have very busy lifestyles so many times family members want to help and in many cases try to help but generally it is only a matter of time before it all becomes overwhelming trying to juggle too many tasks at one time. For most just knowing that companies like ours are here when you need support and an extra set of caring hands make the process less stressful and smooth.
Should a loved one need help, call us today 770-442-8664!
Easy Living Services, Inc.
Providing Home Care to Atlanta families since 1994