It’s a well known medical fact that elderly people are more vulnerable to heat stress than younger adults. As outdoor temperatures rise, learning to identify early signs and symptoms of heat stress is essential for Alzheimer’s caregivers.
Those over 65 have more trouble adjusting to sudden changes in temperature than younger people.
Many seniors take medications that may impair the body’s ability to regulate temperature normally. Some elderly people have medical conditions that may change the body’s normal physiologic response to heat. The fact that older people tend to become dehydrated more quickly, combined with these other high-risk factors, makes it easy to understand why taking precautions in the heat is so important.
There are several conditions associated with heat stress, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
What is Heat Exhaustion?
Heat exhaustion is a heat-related illness that occurs from exposure to high temperatures. It is usually accompanied by dehydration and a fever (no higher than 104 degrees). Heat exhaustion can develop over a period of several days or may progress as quickly as a few hours.
Signs of Heat Exhaustion
- excessive thirst
- nausea
- fainting
- cool and clammy skin
- weakness
- muscle aches
- heavy sweating
- slow heartbeat
- dizziness
What is Heat Stroke?
Heat stroke (which may follow heat exhaustion) is the most serious condition associated with heat stress. It occurs when the body is unable to cool down properly. During heat stroke, the body temperature may rise rapidly, up to 106 degrees or higher in some cases. Heat stroke can lead to damage to the liver, kidneys or even the brain. If emergency medical care is not provided immediately, heat stroke can cause permanent disability or even death. It’s vital to recognize early signs of heat exhaustion before it develops into heat stroke, which can be fatal.
Symptoms of Heat Stroke
- Increased body temperature above 104 degrees F
- Sweating that subsides suddenly - indicating dehydration has begun to occur
- Weak, rapid pulse & shallow breathing
- Muscle cramps may occur (from electrolyte imbalance)
- Restlessness & anxiety
- Slurred speech
- Lack of coordination
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t present)
- Loss of consciousness & coma
Keeping an elderly person with Alzheimer’s disease well hydrated and out of the direct sun and humidity is very important, more so as summer temperatures continue to rise. Learning to identify the early warning signs of heat exhaustion is vital for caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s disease.
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