Extreme Temperature - Too Hot

Heat Exhaustion

Background

Heat exhaustion occurs when a person exposed to a hot environment and sweating cannot dissipate the heat generated within the body. It may also occur if a person lives in a hot environment without adequate air circulation and does not drink an adequate amount of water.

The elderly are at a greater risk for heat exhaustion because of their underlying medical conditions (for example, poor circulation, skin changes, and chronic medication usage) which may limit the ability to sweat.

The risk factors for heat exhaustion in elderly include extreme hot weather, medications (such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and tranquilizers which may impair the ability of the body to sweat), alcohol consumption, and overweight.

Symptoms and signs

- Excess sweating - Headache - Dizziness - Confusion - Nausea & vomiting - Muscle weakness and cramps - Rapid, weak pulse

! Signs of progression into heat stroke !

As a first

- Lower body temperature - Replace body water and salts

Do’s

aider 1. Stop any physical activity immediately 2. Rest in a cool, shaded area 3. Provide casualty with cool electrolyte water and sports drinks 4. Monitor casualty’s level of response, hydration status 5. Seek further medical help if casualty does not recover, unable to drink or whenever you are in doubt