Heat stress and the elderly can be a dangerous combination

We are halfway through, and this summer is already breaking temperature records across northern Louisiana and the country. This is a heatwave of the highest order. That means special precautions need to be taken to protect those most at risk of heat stress injuries and illnesses, particularly our friends and neighbors over the age of 65.

Older adults are much more affected by summer heat. For instance, from 1999-2009, roughly 40 percent of all heat-related deaths in the U.S. – nearly 3,000 – were adults over 65 years old.

People who are 65 or older are more prone to heat-related health problems for a number of reasons and as a result of both internal and external factors. Older adults do not adjust as well as young people to sudden changes in temperature. They are also far more likely to have a chronic medical condition that changes normal body responses to heat than others. Another factor many people forget to take into account is that older adults are also more likely to take prescription medicines that affect the body’s ability to control its temperature or sweat.

Because heat stress can be such a serious concern for older adults, it’s crucial that everyone – caregivers and family members included – understand and recognize the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and that they know how to act when needed.

Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heatrelated illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids. Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include excessive sweating, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache and muscle cramps. Then as exhaustion progresses, symptoms may progress to nausea, vomiting and fainting.

Heat exhaustion may be less severe but is the precursor to the far more dangerous heat stroke, which can set in within 10-15 minutes and become genuinely life-threatening. It occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature. The body’s temperature rises rapidly, loses its ability to sweat and is unable to cool down. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided.

Heat stroke is caused when internal body temperature rises much faster than it’s lowered naturally. Body temperatures can rise to 106°F or higher within just a few minutes. If the symptoms of heat stroke are present, call 911 right away. They include extremely high body temperature, the absence of sweating, confusion, seizure and coma.

When it comes to heat-related illnesses, the experts say that prevention plays a huge role in avoiding any dangerous situations. Stay in airconditioned buildings as much as possible. If the person’s home doesn’t have air conditioning, contact the local health department or locate an airconditioned shelter in your area.

Hydration, especially, is critical for avoiding heat stress. Studies have shown that when you feel thirsty – which can mean even 2-percent dehydration – your ability to self-regulate heat begins to decline. For seniors, who already struggle to manage internal heat, dehydration can deter the body’s natural cooling processes even more.

During heat waves, seniors should be drinking water and juices regularly. A good rule of thumb is to drink fluids at every meal, as well as sipping fluids throughout the day rather than drinking them quickly. If your doctor limits the amount of fluids you drink or has you on water pills, ask them how much you should drink during hot weather.

However, if an older person is suffering from a heat-related illness, acting quickly can make all the difference.

To help those suffering from symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, first have them lie down in a cool place; if you can put a fan directly on that person, even better. Then take steps to lower body temperature. Air conditioning, offering cool fluids or providing access to a cool bath will also help.

Above all, we need to be aware of those who might struggle during these severe heat waves. Stay cool. Stay hydrated. Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Check on a friend or neighbor and have someone do the same for you.

Dr. Jode Burgin is a family medicine physician at CHRISTUS Primary Care Partners. She specializes in acute and chronic illness, preventative medicine and women’s health.