What You Need To Know About Heat-Related Illness

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The temperature hit a high of 101 degrees here in my city on Sunday. That’s hot for North Dakota, especially in June. The heat wave prompted me to share an article I posted last year. Let’s make it a priority to check in on older people this summer and see if we can prevent these tragedies. 

According to the CDC, an average of 702 people in the United States die of heat-related illnesses each year. Most of these deaths occur in people over the age of 60. Sadly, we can assume this number will rise this year because of the intense heat waves predicted across our country.

In today’s society, many people don’t know their neighbors, and families often live far apart. As a result, many older adults have no one to check in on them during this scorching heat.

I hope this article inspires you to learn more about heat-related illnesses and to check in on friends, neighbors, and relatives to be sure they stay safe. You just might save a life!

Why are older adults at increased risk?

• Lack of access to air conditioning, often for financial reasons
• Inadequate fluid intake
• Medications that increase the risk of dehydration
• Decreased ability to sweat as we grow older
• Cognitive impairments that affect one’s response to excessive heat
• Medical conditions that result in impaired circulation

What are the signs of heat-related illness?

Today we’ll look at the two most common heat-related illnesses: heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Heat exhaustion results from prolonged exposure to heat, causing the body to lose excess amounts of water and salt. Symptoms may include:

• cool, clammy, pale skin
• dizziness
• nausea & vomiting
• rapid, weak pulse
• headache
• muscle cramps
• fatigue
• fainting

Heat stroke results when the body loses the ability to control its temperature in hot weather. Symptoms may include:

• high body temperature (often 103 degrees or above)
• dry, flushed skin
• confusion
• strong, rapid pulse
• dizziness
• loss of consciousness

How can we help prevent heat-related illness?

• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing, preferably made from natural fibers.
• Get away to air-conditioned locations in your community such as a library, mall, or senior center.
• Talk with your medical provider about medications, medical conditions, or dietary restrictions that may put you at an increased risk of heat-related illnesses.
• Schedule chores during cooler parts of the day, such as the early morning or late evening.
• Limit time spent in the sun and be sure to use sunscreen.
• Check out government programs that help older adults with home weatherization and paying for energy costs.

What can we do to treat heat-related illnesses?

Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. However, if you come upon an older adult displaying signs of heat exhaustion, I suggest you still seek medical advice. They may have a more complex medical history that makes the condition more serious.

If you personally feel the symptoms of heat exhaustion coming on, these are a few things you can do to reverse it:

• Get to an air-conditioned building if possible
• Remove excess clothing
• Apply cool towels to your body
• Take a cool shower or bath
• Drink water or a sports drink (Avoid caffeine or alcohol which can dehydrate.)

Are you experiencing a heatwave in your part of the country? Think of an older friend, relative, or neighbor you can check on today to ensure they are safe.