Elderly are more prone to effects of heat stress
Published Saturday, June 28, 2008
Dolores Saurer
Summer seems to have sneaked up on us all of a sudden this year. Since it has officially arrived now along with warm weather, which no doubt will be followed by hot weather, it's time to review some of the problems that extreme heat can create for the elderly.
Older people tend to be more prone to heat stress that younger people. Adjustment to changes in temperature become more difficult. Medical conditions often upset the normal response to heat and perscription medications sometimes impair the ability of the body to regulate temperature and even inhibit persperation.
Most serious of heat-related illness is heat stroke. Symptoms of heat stroke vary but may include: extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees); red, hot, dry skin without sweating; rapid, strong pulse rate; throbbing headache; dizzines; nausea.
Heat stroke is extremely serious and can even cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided.
Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness. It can develop after several days of heat exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion also vary but may include: heavy sweating; paleness; muscle cramps; tiredness; weakness; dizziness; headache; nausea or vomiting; fast, weak pulse; fast, shallow breathing.
To protect yourself from heat-related stress, stay inside if you have air conditioning and drink plenty of fluids (non-alcoholic). Better yet, get into your car (or take the bus) and and come to the Senior Center where you may enjoy the noon meal or any of the other activities in cool comfort with your friends.
You might also consideer joining the arthritis exercise class led by Norma Jensen which will be held every Tuesday throughout the month of July at 10:30 a.m.
Unfortunately, fraud continues in Minnesota as in many other areas. If you receive a fraudulent solicitation via e-mail, forward the e-mail to dps.reportfraud@state.mn.us.
Or via phone report any information to local law enforcement or the Minnesota Board of Aging LinkAge line at 1-800-333-2433.
Or if by mail — send all original documents to: Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division, Fraud Report, 444 Cedar St., #133, St, Paul, MN 55101.
Next Friday is the 4th of July. The Senior Center and the Nutrition Program will be closed in observance of Independence Day.
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