heat and your health

Caught an interesting study the other day that found most seniors know the heat can cause health problems but the majority don't do anything to protect themselves. Not good ... and as the temperatures soar the elderly are most at risk for trouble. But they're not alone. It's easy for active, younger folks to suffer the effects of high heat and high humidity - and having just been out west where the temps hit 117 I can attest to how fast you can start feeling poorly, even when you're alert to trouble.

The ounce of prevention comes in a glass .. drink small amounts at regular intervals, avoid alcoholic beverages, stay indoors between 10 am and 3pm when the sun's the highest - wear light,loose fitting clothing and slow down.

Signs of trouble include:

Heat edema: swelling of hands and feet caused by dilated blood vessels.
Heat cramps: may include muscle spasms; tender, hard or lumpy muscles; nausea and vomiting and/or weakness and fatigue.
Fainting- from exertion in a hot environment; pale, cool and moist skin and a feeling of lightheadedness can be a sign of impending trouble.
Heat exhaustion:(which may lead to heat stroke) heavy sweating; cool, moist, pale or flushed skin; headache; dizziness or weakness and nausea, seek medical attention and monitor the condition closely.

Heat stroke: can be life-threatening and requires emergency medical care, so seek help immediately for a high body temperature; flushed hot, dry skin with no sweating; vomiting; a weak, rapid pulse; decreased alertness; changes in consciousness; disorientation; confusion; impaired thinking and shallow, rapid breathing.