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Medical advice: Heat Stress- Care for the Elderly

What is heat stress?

Heat stress occurs when the body can’t cool itself and maintain a healthy temperature. The body normally cools itself by sweating, but sometimes sweating isn’t enough and the body temperature keeps rising. Heat stress is also known as hyperthermia.

 

Symptoms of heat stress

The symptoms depend on the heat-related illness, but may include:

 

Risk factors for heat stress

Factors that increase the risk of heat stress in elderly people include:

 

Self-care issues – some older people are frail or have reduced mobility or mental illness. These factors make it difficult for the person to take adequate care in hot weather.

Isolation – there is no one to take care of the person if the person ignores symptoms.

Physical changes – the ageing body doesn’t cope with sudden stresses as quickly as a younger body. For example, on hot days, elderly skin is not able to produce sweat and cool the body as efficiently as younger skin.

Chronic medical problems – older people are more likely to have chronic medical problems. Certain conditions make the body more vulnerable to heat stress.

Medications – older people with chronic medical problems usually take medications on a regular basis. Some medications can hinder the body’s ability to regulate temperature.

Kidney conditions – if you take medications for kidney problems, you need to talk to your doctor before you increase the amount of fluid you drink.

 

Suggestions to avoid heat stress

It’s important to be sensible in hot weather, for example, stay indoors, avoid strenuous activity, wear lightweight clothing, and drink cool water regularly throughout the day. Other simple measures that can reduce your risk of heat stress include:

 

 

How to help an elderly relative or friend

 A healthcare initiative by AsiaMed Connect in partnership with Apollo Hospitals Group- For free online medical consultation, send your queries to consultationamc@gmail.com

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