Beware of Heat Stroke or Hyperthermia
Caregivers need special care to prevent Heat Stroke or Hyperthermia
We can all agree that we are in the dog days of summer.
Hence, caregivers need to be extra cautious of the dangerous effects of Caregivers need special care to prevent Heat Stroke or Hyperthermia. This summer’s excessive heat can be deadly to senior loved ones. First of all, seniors in good health can suffer the effects of dehydration. Second of all, heat can lead to, heat stroke and even death. Third, this will be made worse if the person is exerting themselves during the heat in the sun. Finally, for some seniors, even going out in the car during a hot, sunny day is often filled with risk.
Family caregivers are with their loved ones more than anyone else and can look for heat-related symptoms to prevent serious outcomes of hyperthermia, the most common threat to seniors or those with other physical or cognitive issues.
The definition of Heat Stroke or Hyperthermia?
Many people have heard of hypothermia. This is a condition that occurs when someone is exposed to extreme cold. Form the air temperature or from very cold water. Hyperthermia is the exact opposite. Hyperthermia is not an age-based condition. It can happen to anyone. However, the problem is worse for seniors. Example, seniors can find themselves suffering from its symptoms. For example, swollen legs, sudden feeling of dizziness, heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Some may faint where they are standing. Per the National Institutes for Health, seniors have a greater risk of heat-related illnesses. The goal, be on high alert for your loved ones. Caregivers need to try to keep loved ones safe and healthy during this summer’s high temperatures.
Here are some of the ways to keep loved ones safe during the hot summer
First of all, when you need to go out, be smart. Try to plan travel for early in the morning. In addition, do other activities after the sun has gone down. This will greatly lower the senior’s exposure to sun as well as the heat. Older adults are more sensitive to heat; therefore, caregivers can reduce their loved one’s chances of becoming overheated by limiting outdoor time.
Bring plenty of water with when you venture out in the heat. Many healthcare professionals will advise a sports drink such as Gatorade. Encourage your loved one to drink lots of water to reduce dehydration. Water is by far the best way to rehydrate. Most experts recommend avoiding hot coffee, cocktails, other alcoholic beverages and some kinds of sports drinks. Do not drink coffee. Caffeine is a diuretic, causing water to exit the body quickly.
Finally, the easiest fix is to stay inside as much as you possible can.
Try to stay in an air-conditioned place. Even if you plan to stay indoors, help your loved one choose the appropriate clothing. First of all, swear loose, light weigh as well as natural fabrics. To sum up, these are the very best to wear because they are less constricting and are breathable. The result, helping to waft off body heat.
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Look for signs of heat-related stress. Overheating can sneak up on you. Many times, your loved ones aren’t aware. The don’t know they are starting to suffer from a heat-related illness. Hence, caregivers always must stay vigilant. Signs of heat exhaustion
- Dizziness
- A Headache
- Some Heavy Sweating
- Muscle Cramps
- Loss of Hearing
- Tiredness
- Nausea
- Cold or Clammy Skin
Keep your eyes open. There is a small time to fox the issue.
What do Caregivers do to prevent Heat Stroke or Hyperthermia?
The Centers for Disease Control has many recommendations. First, caregivers need togive your loved one a cool bath. During the bath, use cool washcloths on the skin. If symptoms last more than 30 minutes , (ex. vomiting occurs), seek medical help immediately or call 911.
The CDC says caregivers should call 911 if their loved one has:
- Temp of 103 degrees or higher
- Skin is hot to the touch.
- Skin is reddish skin
- A Racing Pulse
- Fainting
These are not the only symptoms that caregivers should know about. Finally, have an emergency plan in place ahead of time. Better safe than sorry.
This Summer’s extreme heat makes the current time even more dangerous. Caregivers must remain observant and knowledgeable about the symptoms of a heat-related illness. Caregiver alert, you can prevent a crisis from occurring.