Heat stroke, Heat exhaustion, Senior warning, too much sun, Hot days

HEAT STROKE/HEAT EXHAUSTION

Heat stroke is a very serious health problem, especially for the elderly. Heat stroke happens when the body is exposed to extremely hot temperatures. Heat stroke and Heat exhaustion are related; you can have one, without the other. However, Heat stroke is more serious than Heat exhaustion, and heat stroke is definitely a life-threatening event. This condition occurs when the body’s temperature regulatory system fails. Your temperature goes up as if you had a fever (104 F), but your body is not sweating. Our bodies sweat to keep us cool, and as we perspire, it’s the sweat evaporating from the skin keeping us cool. This failure to sweat triggers a positive feedback situation in which the rising body temperature stimulates our body metabolism, which raises the temperature of your body. A heat stroke victim’s body is hot (usually up to 104 degrees), and usually dry, red and spotted. Heat stroke can be caused be being in extreme heat for a long period of time, and is a medical emergency. It may develop quickly in older, debilitated people living in hot and humid environments. Without some immediate treatment, heat stroke can result in coma and death. The symptoms that a victim might experience are being confused, having convulsions, or being delirious, and even unconscious. Immediate first aid and medical assistance is necessary. Should you or anyone you are with have these problems, you should call 911 immediately. Fast action is essential! This is a medical emergency!!!!

Steps you can take on your own, in the absence of trained medical personnel: Try an alcohol rub, using ice packs or even immersing the whole body in cold water to help reduce their temperature. Make sure the person is able to breathe adequately and is as comfortable as possible. Make them lie down, fanning the head and upper body. Heat exhaustion is caused by overexposure to high temperatures and humidity. Its very important that you know the early warning signs / symptoms of overexposure. Most commonly Heat exhaustion is the direct result of the loss of body fluids and important salts in the body. The symptoms of this condition are best described as lightheadedness to dizziness, headache, nausea, fatigue, profuse sweating, and, the skin is often pale and clammy. The best remedy is to know the warning signs and avoid being in the sun for long periods of time. You should treat the person by placing them in a cool environment remove or loosen tight clothing, and have them lie down. Keep them cool and have them drink plenty of fluids or Gatorade. The best way to avoid heat stroke is to stay out of the sun, keep cool, and drink plenty of fluids. You should, however, avoid drinking coffee and other alcoholic beverages. A lot of soft drinks are loaded with caffeine, and its better that you stick to drinking fruit juices. On hot days take cool baths or shower often, especially if you’re in a hot and humid climate. Eat lightly. Normally exercise can be good for you, but you must take precautions not to over due it. This article is written as general information to our membership, and should not be construed as medical advice. Please keep these important tips in mind, and stay out of the sun.