Over the next few days, temperatures are expected to climb above 100 degrees in many areas. The good news is that cooler weather is on the way. Even so, please keep these heat safety tips in mind. Extreme heat remains one of the leading weather-related causes of illness and death in the United States, especially among older adults.
Summer brings longer days, backyard barbecues, baseball games, and time with family. It also brings extreme heat. For older adults, hot weather is more than uncomfortable. It is a serious health risk.
As we age, our bodies do not cool themselves as efficiently as they once did. Many common medications for high blood pressure, heart disease, allergies, and other conditions also affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature or stay hydrated. Even healthy, active seniors need to take extra precautions during periods of high heat.
Knowing the warning signs of heat illness could protect your health or even save a life.
Dizziness
Feeling lightheaded or unsteady is often one of the first signs that your body is struggling with the heat. Sit down immediately, move into an air-conditioned space, and drink water.
Headache
A headache during hot weather is often a sign of dehydration or overheating. Do not ignore it. Cool down, rest, and replace lost fluids.
Confusion
If you or someone else becomes confused, has trouble speaking clearly, or seems unusually disoriented, treat it as a medical emergency. Heat stroke affects the brain and requires immediate medical attention.
Nausea
Feeling sick to your stomach after being in the heat is another warning sign. Stop all activity, move indoors, and begin cooling down.
Rapid Heartbeat
Your heart works harder to cool your body in extreme temperatures. If your heart is racing while you are resting, especially if you also feel weak or dizzy, seek medical advice promptly.
Heavy Sweating, or Hot, Dry Skin
Heavy sweating means your body is working hard to cool itself. Continue drinking water and get out of the heat.
Hot, dry skin is more dangerous. It often means your body has stopped sweating, which is a hallmark of heat stroke. This is a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately.
Stay Ahead of the Heat
Simple steps make a big difference.
• Drink water throughout the day, even if you are not thirsty.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, usually between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
• Use air conditioning whenever possible.
• Check on older friends, neighbors, and family members during heat waves.
• Never leave people or pets in a parked vehicle.
Heat illness develops faster than many people realize. Paying attention to these warning signs and acting quickly helps you stay healthy and enjoy the summer safely.
Remember, there is no prize for proving you can tolerate the heat. The sun has been doing this for about 4.5 billion years. It has a flawless winning record. Staying cool is the smarter strategy.