From: Tim Heider, Clackamas County Public Affairs Coordinator, 503-742-5911

07-07-2010

The National Weather Service is predicting near record temperatures over the next few days with temperatures hovering into the mid to high 90s. During this hot summer weather Clackamas County Public Health cautions people and their pets of an increased risk for heat-related problems such as dehydration, heat exhaustion and sun stroke.

Seniors, people with disabilities and children are especially susceptible to these conditions. Children and people with disabilities may not be able to express discomfort or communicate symptoms. Here is what you should look for:

• Red irritated skin
• Excessive sweating
• Headaches, muscle aches and nausea

If someone demonstrates one or more of those symptoms it is important to get them hydrated and out of the sun immediately. If the symptoms persist or they lose consciousness or have trouble breathing, summon medical assistance as soon as possible. Hot weather can also cause strain on the heart, exacerbate respiratory impairments such as asthma, emphysema and a range of other conditions. It can also affect the ability to manage diseases like diabetes and hypertension.

Here are some tips for combating the heat:

• Keep air circulating with fans; take cool sponge baths.
• Go to an air-conditioned building if possible. Consider visiting a local senior center, youth center library or mall. Air-conditioning has been found to be the single most important factor in reducing heat-related risks.
• Wear loose-fitting and light-colored clothing. If going out wear a hat.
• Drink lots of water and don’t wait to get thirsty before drinking water
• Avoid, coffee, tea or alcohol
• Limit physical activity and direct exposure to the sun
• Check with your health provider about how the hot weather affects your prescription drugs
• Contact your health provider if you experience prolonged heat-related symptoms, or if those symptoms significantly affect the ability to care for yourself.

 

For more about caring for the elderly or persons with disabilities visit http://www.caregiver.org/caregiver/jsp/content_node.jsp?nodeid=871