HOW DOES HEAT AFFECT THE ELDERLY AND WHAT ARE THE EARLY SIGNS OF HEAT RELATED ILLNESS? A REVIEW BY DOCTORS
Expert opinion from Dr. Anuvitha Kamath
MBBS · 3 years of experience · India
Older people cannot adjust to temperature changes as quickly as younger people due to underlying chronic diseases. The early signs of heat-related illness are feeling excess thirst, sunken eyes, dry mouth, dry eyes, fatigue, confusion, rapid heart rate, excess perspiration, nausea, and dizziness. Excess heat can quickly lead to dehydration in the elderly. The risks and complications of dehydration in the elderly include an increased risk of falls due to giddiness, hypotension, weakness, skin sores, or skin irritation, increased risk of urinary tract infection due to less body water, constipation, heat stroke, seizure due to low potassium and sodium levels, kidney failure, hypotensive shock, coma, brain swelling, and death.
Expert opinion from Dr. Himabindu Sreenivasulu
MBBS · 1 years of experience · India
Heat can have serious effects on the elderly. With age, the body's ability to regulate temperature diminishes, making seniors more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Early signs of heat-related illness in the elderly include excessive sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, and cool, clammy skin. These signs can progress to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which are critical conditions. To protect elderly individuals, ensure they stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, limit heat exposure, and seek shade or air-conditioning in hot weather. Immediate medical attention is crucial if any signs of heat-related illness are observed.
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Expert opinion from Dr. Rinta M Babu
MBBS · 2 years of experience · India
Heat can lead to dehydration. The skin of the elderly is already loose, with no much water content. Dehydration can also lead to loss of electrolytes from the body, which can lead to hyponatremia, resulting in drowsiness, confusion, memory loss and disorientation.
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Disclaimer: This is for information purpose only, and should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. These are opinions from an external panel of individual doctors or nutritionists and not to be considered as opinion of Microsoft. Please seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Medical advice varies across region. Advice from professionals outside your region should be used at your own discretion. Or you should contact a local health professional. Learn More.
2024-04-26T08:51:01Z dg43tfdfdgfd