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Watch for signs of heat stroke CA NEWS

Submitted by Barbara Akers, EMC Committee Member JULY 2016 SUNRAYS | 11

Older adults (that is, people aged 65 years
and older) are more prone to heat stress than
younger people for several reasons:

– Older adults do not adjust as well as young
people to sudden changes in temperature.

– They are more likely to have a chronic medical condition
that changes the body’s normal response to heat.

– They are more likely to take prescription medicines that
impair the body’s ability to regulate its temperature or
that inhibit perspiration.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs
when the body becomes unable to control its temperature,
resulting in rapid overheating. The body loses its ability to
sweat and is unable to cool down. Body temperatures can rise
to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can
cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment
is not provided.

Signs and Symptoms of Heat Stroke

Warning signs vary but may include the following:

– An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)

– Red, hot and dry skin (no sweating)

– Rapid, strong pulse or slow weak pulse

– Change in behavior – confusion, agitation, staggering

– Throbbing headache – Muscle Cramps

– Dizziness – Seizure

– Nausea – Coma

If you see any signs of severe heat stress, you may be dealing
with a life-threatening emergency. Have someone call for im-
mediate medical assistance while you begin cooling the affected
person. Do the following:

– Get the person to a shady area.

– Cool the person rapidly, using whatever methods you can.
For example, immerse the person in a tub of cool water or
pool; place the person in a cool shower; spray the person
with cool water from a garden hose; sponge the person with
cool water or, if the humidity is low, wrap the person in a
cool, wet sheet and fan him or her vigorously.

– Monitor body temperature and continue cooling efforts
until the body temperature drops to 101°–102°F.

– If the person is able to drink, give fluids such as water or
sports drink. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.

– If emergency medical personnel are delayed, call the hos-
pital emergency room for further instructions.

– If the person becomes unresponsive and is not breathing,
begin CPR.

Sources: CDC Center for Disease Control and Prevention; Ameri-
can Heart Association; National Institute on Aging

ONLINE: SCTEXAS.ORG