Heat Safety: Recognizing an Emergency

According to the CDC, heat waves are the most dangerous and lethal weather phenomenon. For the elderly, summer heat can pose a serious risk. Elderly people are more prone to heat related stress because their bodies are less capable of adjusting to temperature changes. This is compounded by prescription medication and chronic illnesses, which can also impact the way their bodies react to heat.

So, what exactly is a heat wave? A heat wave is defined as a prolonged period of unusually hot weather that is outside the expected normal climate pattern. Since weather changes region to region, the definition of a heat wave also varies. For example, in Maine, three days of 90 degree weather with high humidity could be considered a heat wave because summers days are usually around 70 degrees. In Arizona, three days of 90 degree weather would be considered normal. The best way to stay informed of the weather is by checking weather websites, the local television channel, or listening to a radio daily. Knowing when a heat wave is going to hit will help you stay prepared!

In addition to being prepared, knowing the signs and symptoms of heat related stress can be a lifesaver, especially when dealing with the elderly. For a variety of reasons, the elderly can be unaware of the change in temperature, and they are at a high risk for developing a heat related illness. Take time to familiarize yourself with the symptoms and signs of heat related illnesses.

According to the CDC, heat exhaustion is a mild form of heat related stress, and it can develop following long periods of exposure to high temperature and low fluids. Here’s what to look for:

• Heavy sweating
• Muscle cramps
• Tiredness
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Feeling of faintness or fainting
• Pale skin
• Skin may also be cool and moist
• A fast and weak pulse rate
• Fast and shallow breathing

Heat stroke, or hyperthermia, is a very serious medical condition. The body’s temperature increases drastically, the body loses the ability to cool off through sweating, and it can cause death or permanent injury.

Here are the symptoms as indicated by the CDC:

• An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)
• Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating)
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Throbbing headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea

If you recognize any of these symptoms in an elderly person, contact a physician immediately. Heat related illnesses are incredibly serious, especially in the high risk elderly population.