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As we age and as a result of chronic health conditions or medications at any age, the body may have a harder time controlling its temperature or sweat in warm weather. The temperature inside or outside doesn’t have to be as high as we may think to be at risk for a heat-related illness.
Certain mediations may make some people more sensitive to the ultraviolet (UV) light in the sun (or in artificial light such as tanning beds) and medication patches worn on the skin, when exposed to hot temperatures, may increase the absorption of the medication. To help you stay safe in hot weather, check with your medical provider, pharmacist, or paperwork provided when you fill an RX related to exposure to hot weather and sunlight.
To keep heat-related illnesses from becoming a dangerous heat stroke, consider the following general tips:
- Get out of the direct sun and into a shaded, cool, and ideally in an air-conditioned place, such as public spaces (stores, churches, YMCAs offering special access on hot days, etc.).
- Drink fluids without alcohol or caffeine, throughout the day, not just when you feel thirsty or hot.
- Shower, bathe, or sponge off with cool (not ice cold) water. Avoid shocking the body.
- Be mindful of lower water temperature in rivers, lakes, etc. and limit time in the water to avoid hypothermia or cramps, and wear a life jacket.
- Lie down and rest.
Information about a few heat-related illnesses and prevention ideas are shared below, from an article by the National Institute on Aging. The full article with more tips can be viewed by clicking HERE (English) or HERE (Español).
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Heat syncope A sudden dizziness that can happen when you are active in hot weather. If you take a heart medication called a beta blocker or are not acclimated to hot weather, you are even more likely to feel faint. Rest in a cool place, put your legs up, and drink water to help the dizzy feeling go away.
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Heat exhaustion A warning that your body can no longer keep itself cool. You might feel thirsty, dizzy, weak, uncoordinated, and nauseated. You may sweat a lot. Your body temperature may stay normal, but your skin may feel cold and clammy. Some people with heat exhaustion have a rapid pulse. Rest in a cool place and get plenty of fluids. If you don’t feel better soon, get medical care. Heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke.
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Heat stroke A medical emergency in which the body’s temperature rises above 104°F. Signs of heat stroke are fainting; confusion or acting strangely; not sweating even when it’s hot; dry, flushed skin; strong, rapid pulse; or a slow, weak pulse. When a person has any of these symptoms, they should seek medical help right away and immediately move to a cooler place, such as under shade or indoors. They should also take action to lower their body temperature with cool clothes, a cool bath or shower, and fans.
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Heat cramps Painful tightening or spasms of muscles in your stomach, arms, or legs. Cramps can result from hard work or intense exercise. Though your body temperature and pulse usually stay normal during heat cramps, your skin may feel moist and cool. Stop the physical activity you’re doing and rest in the shade or in a cool building. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water and sports drinks containing electrolytes. Do not consume alcohol or caffeinated beverages.
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Heat edema Swelling in your ankles and feet when you get hot. Put your legs up to help reduce swelling. If that doesn’t work fairly quickly, check with your doctor.
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Heat rash Skin irritation from heavy sweating. It causes red clusters of small blisters that look similar to pimples on the skin. Your skin may feel itchy, or you may feel “prickly” tingling pain. Keep the infected area dry, consider using powder to sooth the rash, and stay in cool areas.
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Sun exposure Also known as sunburn. Your skin may appear red and tender, develop blisters, start to peel, and be warm to the touch. Severe reactions may cause fever, chills, nausea, or rash. You may be able to prevent sunburn by wearing protective clothing that covers your skin, staying out of direct sunlight, frequently applying broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher when outdoors. If you get a sunburn, to help your skin heal, stay out of the sun, wear lightweight clothing, take cool showers, and moisturize affected areas.
Resources
Are you an older adult interested in making an impact in Kitsap?
The Kitsap County Aging Advisory Council has two immediate openings for interested community members: one for a resident of District 1 (Bangor, Keyport, North Kitsap and Bainbridge Island areas) and one at-large position (for a person that resides anywhere in Kitsap County). Be the voice of our community! Learn more about the Council by visiting the website HERE or contact Rebecca Pirtle, Volunteer Coordinator, at rpirtle@kitsap.gov.
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