Elderly are at risk when temperatures rise

Those reminders to check on our loved ones on especially warm days aren’t just a case of the weather man being dramatic. The dangers of excessive heat are real, especially for older adults.

The Centers for Disease Control recommend that anyone over 65 have a friend or relative call to check on them twice a day during a heat wave. Heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke can all occur in people who do not take the proper precautions. Heat and humidity is more than an uncomfortable combination. It’s a dangerous one. When the humidity is high, sweat will not evaporate as quickly, preventing the body from releasing heat quickly.

Heat cramps are muscle spasms that result from low sodium levels due to excess sweating. Heat exhaustion is weakness or fatigue as a result of heat-induced dehydration. Heat stroke is the most serious risk of excessive heat exposure and can result in death.  Heat stroke occurs when the body is unable to regulate its own temperature.

Signs of heat stroke include high body temperature; red, hot and dry skin; rapid, strong pulse; throbbing headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea and loss of consciousness.

If heat stroke is suspected, call 911 and take steps to cool the person by giving them a cool shower or bath, wrapping them in a wet sheet, and moving them to an air conditioned area. As an alternative, vigorously fan the person. Heat cramps and exhaustion can be treated the same way, but medical attention probably isn’t necessary unless the condition worsens or lasts for more than one hour.

Here are the tools you need to protect yourself and loved ones from heat-related illness:

Air-conditioning  This is the number one weapon against heat-related illness. During conditions of extreme heat, spend time in locations with air-conditioning such as shopping malls, public libraries, or public health sponsored heat-relief shelters in your area.

A TV or radio  Know what to expect from Mother Nature by paying attention to local news and weather channels. Make plans to stay indoors when the forecast calls for heat and humidity.

Plenty of fluids  Water and other cool, nonalcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages are a must during hot weather. Drink plenty. Then drink some more.