Pampering Plus Inc. Blog
Heat Safety Tips to Help Survive the Summer Heat
Summer is the season we all look forward to, but summer sun can also get a little sweltering sometimes. Extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. In extreme heat, your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature. For older people who live alone or individuals with special health needs, heat waves can bring special risks. During periods of prolonged heat, the elderly and persons with chronic health conditions are usually the first to be affected by the heat. So here are some summer heat safety tips to help protect yourself and your family as you enjoy the summer months.
Heat Stress Facts
WHAT:
Heat stress is an illness induced by high temperatures. The signs are often overlooked by the victim who may at first be confused or unable to concentrate, followed by more severe symptoms.
WHERE:
Prolonged exposure in a hot, humid, poorly ventilated environment outdoors in the sun or indoors in hot rooms.
WHEN:
Heat stress can be induced by high temperatures 90°F or higher and/or humidity above 60%. Strenuous outdoor activity, inappropriate clothing for heat and humidity, and drinking alcohol can also put you at risk.
WHO:
People at greatest risk for heat-related illness include people over 65 years of age, children under 4 years old, people who have existing medical conditions*.
*Persons with these chronic problems are more at risk: Heart or Kidney Failure, Recent or Past Stroke, Infection or Fever, Some Medication Side Effects, Overweight or Underweight, Diabetes, Diarrhea, High Blood Pressure, Drinking Alcohol, Reduced Sweating
Heat Stress Warning Signs
If the following symptoms of heat stress are experienced, seek help immediately…
MILD SYMPTOMS:
- Decreased Energy
- Slight Loss of Appetite
- Nausea
- Lightheadedness
MODERATE SYMPTOMS:
- Heavy Sweating
- Thirst
- Faintness
- Giddiness
- Headache
- Confusion
TREATMENT:
- Get person into cool place.
- Give more fluids to drink.
- Remove excess clothing.
- Plenty of rest.
SERIOUS SYMPTOMS:
- Throbbing Headache
- Mental Confusion
- Extreme Irritability
- Rapid Heartbeat
- Difficulty Breathing
- Dry Skin (no sweating)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Muscle Cramps
- Staggering
TREATMENT:
CALL 9-1-1 and get the person to a hospital immediately -
this is a MEDICAL EMERGENCY!
DOs & DON’Ts to Reduce Your Risk of Heat Stress
Since our ability to cope with the effects of high temperatures, high humidity and hot sun goes down as we age, it is important for individuals with special health needs, older adults, their neighbors, friends, relatives and health care providers to pay attention to these important heat safety tips and work to put them into practice.
- Do drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty, to prevent dehydration. 8-12 glasses per day is recommended.
- Do eat several small, light meals throughout the day.
- Do dress appropriately by wearing light colored, lightweight, loose clothing (cotton/synthetic blends).
- Do use insulated drapes or shades and keep them closed during daylight hours.
- Do use fan, but only when there is cool air blowing.
- Do keep windows open to allow the hot air to escape.
- Do spend as much time as possible in the basement or first floor of the home which tends to stay cooler.
- Do take cool baths and/or showers and sprinkle yourself with water more often to cool down.
- Do protect skin and eyes by using sunscreen and an umbrella and by wearing a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses.
- Do spend time in air-conditioned areas as much as possible. If you don’t have AC, you can seek relief at a senior center, mall, library, movie theater or visit family who have AC.
- Don't engage in vigorous activity, especially outdoors, during the hottest part of the day (12noon-4pm). If you must be active outdoors, take frequent rests in a cool place and drink extra fluids.
- Don't plan travel outside in the heat of the day.
- Don't wear dark, nylon clothing that is tight fitting.
- Don't drink alcohol or beverages containing caffeine because they act as a diuretic (removing body fluid).
- Don't eat meals of hot, heavy foods.
- Don't increase salt or potassium intake or take salt tablets without doctor's okay.
- Don't use a fan to blow extremely hot air on yourself.
Are You Dehydrated? Common Warning Signs...
Dehydration occurs when your body loses too much water or you drink too little liquid. As we age, there is a tendency to have a decreased sense of thirst. If we don’t keep up with water intake, serious issues could be right around the corner. With adequate intake of fluids, symptoms of dehydration should be relieved.
- Headache (the most common symptom)
- Thirsty
- Dry Skin
- Dry Mouth & Tongue
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Weight Loss
- Low Blood Pressure (sometimes)
- Fast Heartbeat
- Disorientation (in extreme cases)
Rely On the In-Home Care Services Available from Pampering Plus Inc.
Now is the time to reach out and contact Pampering Plus Inc. to discuss the options available for yourself, a loved one or someone you care for. We want to know your needs exactly so that we can provide the perfect solution. If you are considering in-home care services, we will arrange for a visit to the place of residence for a complimentary consultation and to answer any questions. Give us a call today at 215-881-8902 or click to contact us online. The dependable staff at Pampering Plus Inc. is here to help!
