Avoiding the heat-related illnesses of summer

Providence Seniors Health Team

[3 MIN READ]

Excessive heat is not safe for anyone—regardless of their age—but if you’re age 65 or older, the heat waves of summer can have a much greater impact on your health than they did when you were younger. Information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that older adults experience more adverse effects from the heat than young people do because seniors:

Do not adjust easily to sudden temperature changes
Are more likely to have a chronic medical condition that worsens with excessive heat
Are more likely to take prescription medication that reduces their body's ability to regulate its temperature

Luckily, this doesn’t mean you have to avoid warm weather activities and huddle in the air conditioning. Following a few precautions can help you keep your cool when the heat rises.

Types of heat-related illness

Statistics from the CDC indicate that most heat-related illness occurs during July and August. Knowing the different conditions and their signs can help you prevent a heat-related health emergency.

Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a life-threatening illness that causes your body temperature to rise to dangerous levels in minutes. If you experience signs of heatstroke, seek medical attention immediately.

Symptoms include:

A body temperature of 103°F or higher
Hot, red, dry skin
Rapid, strong pulse
Dizziness
Nausea
Headache
Mental confusion
Losing consciousness

Heat exhaustion

Heat exhaustion occurs after you’re exposed to high temperatures and insufficient fluids for several days. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can become heatstroke.

Symptoms include:

Heavy sweating
Rapid breathing
Rapid, weak pulse
Cold, clammy skin
Nausea or vomiting
Muscle cramps
Excessive fatigue
Losing consciousness

Heat cramps

Heat cramps are muscle spasms that occur while you’re exercising. They are most common in your legs, arms or abdomen.

Symptoms include:

Heavy sweating during exercise
Extreme muscle pain
Muscle spasms

Heat rash

Heat rash causes skin irritation from excessive sweating.

Symptoms include:

Red clusters of small blisters
A rash that typically occurs on the neck, chest, groin or elbow creases

Staying cool

One of the best ways to minimize the heat's effect is by staying hydrated. Keeping your fluid intake up during the hottest days of summer can help you avoid multiple health issues. Drink lots of water and avoid too much alcohol or caffeine, which can be dehydrating. Using a small cup that you refill often can often help encourage more fluid intake than a larger container that can be intimidating.

Other ways older adults can beat the heat include:

Stay inside during the hottest part of the day.
Find the shade if you’re outside while it’s sunny.
Go for a swim or take a cool shower.
Wear light-colored, lightweight fabrics and loose-fitting clothing.
Bring a handheld fan with you on outings.

Air conditioning offers relief for the hottest days. If you need help paying for home cooling, contact the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program or your local Area Agency on Aging for assistance.

Find a doctor

Our geriatric specialists can help you stay active and healthy throughout your golden years. Through Providence Express Care Virtual, you can access a full range of healthcare services. If you need to find a doctor, you can use our provider directory or search for one in your area.