Save an Older Adult’s Life this Summer – Know How to Prevent and Treat Heat Stroke
Philadelphia, PA, June 16, 2005– According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hundreds of people die each year from heat stroke and
among the most vulnerable are the elderly. “Knowing how to prevent and care for heat stroke can save a life,” says Richard
Grant, MD, Acting Chairman of the Division of Geriatrics at Albert Einstein Medical Center.
“The elderly are susceptible to heat stroke because of preexisting medical conditions and/or prescription medications they
are taking. In addition, older adults cannot adjust to the heat as well as younger individuals,” says Dr. Grant.
Heat stroke occurs when the body’s temperature quickly rises out-of-control to 106 degrees or above within minutes. Warning
signs include extremely high body temperature of 103 degrees or over; red, hot, dry skin, but no sweating; strong, rapid pulse;
headache; nausea and dizziness. To prevent heat stroke, Dr. Grant recommends:
- Drinking plenty of fluids – preferably cool water. Do not drink beverages that have sugar, caffeine or alcohol, because these
cause dehydration.
- Seeking air-conditioning, especially during the day. If air conditioning is not available at home, go to a public place with
air conditioning such as a mall. At the very least, use an electric fan.
- Wearing lightweight, lightly colored clothing. Dark colors attract sunlight and heavy clothes increase body temperature.
- Avoiding rigorous activity. Don’t exert yourself unnecessarily and rest when possible.
- Taking cool showers and baths. This will help maintain a healthy, normal body temperature.
“Prevention is the most important factor in heat stroke protection,” says Dr. Grant. However, if heat stroke occurs, you can
avoid serious injury or even death by:
- Calling for medical attention as quickly as possible.
- Cooling down. Try to decrease the body temperature to around 102 degrees and lower with cool water in a bathtub, shower or
an unheated swimming pool.
- Monitoring body temperature. Routinely check body temperature to make sure that it is stable.
In addition, Dr. Grant reminds older adults to talk to their physicians about risks, precautions and treatment.
Albert Einstein Healthcare Network, a member of the Jefferson Health System, provides healthcare services through Albert Einstein
Medical Center, Germantown Community Health Services, Willow Terrace (a nursing home), Einstein at Elkins Park, MossRehab,
Willowcrest (a center for subacute care), Belmont Behavioral Health and a number of outpatient and satellite locations. Einstein
also operates a primary care network, Einstein Neighborhood Healthcare. To make an appointment with an Einstein physician,
visit
www.einstein.edu or call 1-800-EINSTEIN.
CONTACT: Emily Schmitt
Marketing Specialist
Albert Einstein Healthcare Network
215-456-6731 or
schmitte@einstein.edu
Publish date: June 16, 2005
