The dog days of summer are fast approaching, and while we cannot control the rising temperatures on the streets, we can control the heat index of our bodies.
When temperatures rise so does the risk for heat stroke and other heat-related injuries. Heat accounts for more deaths than any other weather related hazard but often the warning signs for heat-related conditions go dangerously unnoticed. Older adults are at an especially high risk.
Dr. Michael Stern, co-director of the Geriatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, says, "As a person ages, the body's response to higher temperature changes. Compared with a younger person, an older adult may not be able to sense elevations in temperature as quickly or be able to cool down as readily. In today's society, we are also seeing an increased number of seniors doing vigorous exercise routines, which can become bad for their health if they don't slow down for scorching temperatures."
The effect of the sun on the skin of older adults can also be heightened because of changes in the skin as one ages. "You can burn much quicker even with short exposure to the sunlight," says Dr. Evelyn Granieri, director of Geriatrics at NewYork-Presbyterian/Allen Hospital.
"Heat-related injuries range from minor issues, such as muscle cramps due to loss of water and salt through perspiration, dizziness, clammy skin and rapid heart beat to heat exhaustion in the form of headaches, nausea and weakness; and finally heat stroke, which can be fatal," says Dr. Granieri.
There are also several medical conditions that can increase the risk for heat stroke, including heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, psychiatric illness and certain medications. Consult your physician with questions.
Drs. Stern and Granieri offer seniors the following tips for a cool and injury-free summer:
•Slow down. When temperatures begin to reach extreme highs you should stay in the coolest place available out of the sun or in an air-conditioned room or in front of a fan, and reduce or eliminate all strenuous activities.
•Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids even if you do not feel thirsty. You should minimize the amount of caffeinated beverages and alcohol that you drink, and grab a water bottle or a sports-drink instead. A good test of hydration is to make sure that your urine is always clear in color. If you are a patient with a heart condition, consult your physician regarding your appropriate fluid intake.
•Don't get too much sun. Sunburn makes the job of heat dissipation that much more difficult. Always remember to use sunblock (SPF 15 or greater) when outdoors for prolonged periods of time in the summer months, even on hazy or cloudy days. It is also important, if you have a loved one or friend who has memory problems, to ensure that he/she is not in the sun for any extended period of time. That person may not recognize or be able to tell you that he/she is uncomfortable.
•Dress cool. Lightweight, light-colored, loose clothing reflects heat and sunlight and helps your body maintain normal temperatures.
•Anticipate change. Make it a habit to turn air conditioning systems or other ventilators on as soon as you go inside and take off extra layers of clothing when going outside. For seniors having trouble recognizing temperature changes, this can help maintain a comfortable indoor and outdoor environment.
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