According to Harvard Medicine Magazine, over 80% of the roughly 12,000 people who die annually of heat-related illnesses are over the age of 60. Unfortunately, older bodies aren’t as capable of cooling themselves down and/or even being aware that their body is beginning to become too warm. This puts them at an increased risk, and is why being aware of the early signs of heat exposure is so crucial to keeping Arizona seniors safe (especially in the summer months).
Keep reading to learn the early signs of heat exposure, how to prevent it, and how to treat it if it happens.
What Is Heat Exposure?
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, being exposed to extreme heat for extended periods of time can cause heat-related illnesses. Heat-related illnesses become more common if it is hot and humid, but excessive heat is always a concern. The following make heat-related illness more likely to happen:
- Failing to take breaks from heat exposure
- Exerting yourself in the heat
- Not adequately hydrating on hot days
There Are Three Types of Heat-Related Illnesses
Heat Cramps
Heat cramps are the first stage of heat-related illness and cause muscle cramps and muscle spasms (in some cases, severe). This is generally caused by overexertion and/or intense sweating in extreme heat.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is the next phase of heat-related illness and is generally a result of too much water and salt leaving the body without being replenished. At this stage, the body becomes unable to properly cool itself. If left untreated, heat exhaustion may advance to heatstroke.
Heatstroke
According to the Mayo Clinic, heatstroke is the final and most dangerous stage of heat-related illness. This stage happens when a person’s body temperature reaches 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius) or higher. Without treatment, heatstroke will cause damage to the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles. Any delays in treatment increase the risk of organ damage and life-threatening complications.
Symptoms of Heat Exposure
According to the National Weather Service, the following are the early signs of heat exposure that require immediate treatment (see first aid section below) to avoid heatstroke:
- Muscle cramps (especially in the legs or abdomen)
- Heavy sweating
- Flushed, damp skin
- Thirst
- Nausea
- Weakness or dizziness
Disclaimer: If dizziness, confusion, or a loss of consciousness occurs, call 911 immediately and follow the steps in the first aid section below.
The following are symptoms of heat exposure in order of least concerning to most concerning:
- Muscle cramps
- Sweating
- Flushed, moist skin
- No appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weak, but rapid pulse
- Weakness/fatigue
- Anxiety
- Feeling faint/dizzy
- Fever
- Confusion
- Easily agitated
- Seizures and coma (possible without treatment — can be deadly)
How Can Arizona Seniors Avoid Heat-Related Illnesses Caused by Heat Exposure?
The Mayo Clinic notes that to avoid heat exhaustion from heat exposure when temperatures begin to rise, you should:
- Wear appropriate clothing that is breathable and loose-fitting
- Hydrate by drinking plenty of fluids (especially cool water)
- Protect against sunburn by applying sunblock every two hours (more if swimming or sweating)
- Ask your doctor if you should be taking extra precautions with any of your prescription medications (some medications affect the way the body cools itself and/or retains water)
- Never sit in a parked car
- Only do strenuous activities, such as chores or exercising, during the coolest parts of the day
- Try to relax in an air-conditioned place during the peak of the heat
Consider an Assisted Living Facility
For those struggling to stay comfortable living in the Arizona heat, an assisted living facility may be a good solution. At a Haven Health assisted living facility, you or a loved one will have access to comfortable facilities, as well as:
- The option to live independently
- 24-hour access to skilled nursing services
- Transportation services for appointments
- Caregiving services
- Full-service dining
- Planned community activities
Check out Haven Health today to learn more about the assisted living facility options they have available. Haven Health believes in individualized and comprehensive treatment options for every patient. Give them a call to find out what options they offer to help with your specific situation.
First Aid for Heat Exposure
Johns Hopkins Medicine recommends the following for first aid when someone is experiencing a heat-related illness:
- Get the patient to a cool place where they can rest
- Remove any extra/unnecessary clothing
- Provide a cool sports drink (or water, if a sports drink is unavailable)
- Caution: If the patient is unable to take in fluids or is vomiting, take them to the nearest emergency room for IV fluids
- Place ice packs in the armpits and on the groin
- If you suspect heatstroke, call 911 immediately
Heat-related illnesses are scary and can even be fatal, especially for seniors. By taking the necessary precautions before a heat wave sets in, you can be better prepared to handle the situation. If you’re still worried about the possibility of you or a loved one being exposed to the Arizona heat, contact Haven Health today to ask about how they can help.
Are you looking for an assisted living facility for you or a loved one? Contact Haven Health to learn about the comprehensive skilled nursing services they offer.
Sources:
Dutchen, S. (n.d.). The Effects of Heat on Older Adults.
Heat Cramps, Exhaustion, Stroke. (n.d.).
Heat-Related Illnesses (Heat Cramps, Heat Exhaustion, Heat Stroke). (n.d.).
Heatstroke. (2024).