For the elderly population, adjusting to the raising temperatures// in the summer months are quite difficult. Health problems due to heat that may affect the elderly people are heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

The recent issue of Harvard Health Letter from the Harvard Medical School had given some tips to the elderly people that might make their lives a little easier during the summers.

In addition to heading for the air conditioning, staying out of the sun, and wearing loose, light clothes, the report also suggests the following guidelines.

1. Review your medications Painkillers, for example, can reduce awareness of the heat. Talk to your doctor about your medications if temperatures are climbing, especially if you’re not protected by air conditioning. Older people are also more likely than younger folks to be taking medications that cause fluid loss (and therefore dehydration), including some laxatives, furosemide (Lasix) to counteract water retention, and other diuretics for blood pressure control.

2. Check up on a neighbor Social isolation is a major risk factor for heat-related illness and death.

3. Stay hydrated Thirst declines with age, and older sweat glands don’t produce as much sweat as they used to. The sweat that is produced tends to contain more salt, and lack of salt in the body can lead to sudden drops in blood pressure.

4. Listen to your body Muscle cramps, fatigue, weakness, impaired concentration, confusion, lightheadedness, nausea, labored breathing, chest discomfort, and a rapid or erratic pulse can all be signs of trouble. If you feel ill — even just a little — get to a cool place, drink plenty of cool water, and seek medical help if you don’t improve promptly.

Source: Newswise

Medindia on Heat stroke

Heat stroke: In heat stroke the increased body temperature start causing damage to many organs
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