With much of the nation gripped by a heatwave, the news is full of warnings for people to frequently check on their elderly neighbors, watch their children closely and even to watch out for their pets. In all the cautionary tales, though, no one ever seems to be reminded to check on their neighbors with disabilities.
In addition to the elderly and the very young, those with chronic medical conditions and disabilities are the most at risk group for heat-related issues or disorders.
What Is A Heat Disorder?
According to the medical dictionary at TheFreeDictionary.com, heat disorders are a "group of physically related illnesses caused by prolonged exposure to hot temperatures, restricted fluid intake, or failure of temperature regulation mechanisms of the body." These disorders usually occur in two ways - the body's inability to reduce heat by sweating or a chemical imbalance caused by too much sweating. Studies have shown that, as with most other things, the severity of heat disorders increases with age. In other words, conditions that may only cause heat cramps in a teenager may cause a heat stroke in someone over the age of 60 or someone with an inability to change their position regularly.
All cases of hyperthermia (heat disorders) have one thing in common - prolonged exposure to heat that is too much for the person's age or physical condition.
Signs and Symptoms of Heat Disorders
There are several things you should watch for in regards to heat disorders.
Symptoms of heat cramps and heat exhaustion include abdominal cramping, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headaches and tiredness. Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are fairly mild and can be treated at home. If symptoms include fainting, rapid pulse, red or dry skin or unconsciousness, heat stroke is a very real possibility. If you suspect heat stroke, seek immediate medical attention.
How to Beat the Heat
People with disabilities are just as much at risk from excessive heat as the elderly and the very young, mainly because of their inability to change their body position and, in some cases, inability to regulate body temperature.
There are some things you can do to help avoid heat disorders.
- Keep your living space cool by covering windows to keep the sun out if you have an air conditioner.
- Open windows and use fans to circulate air if you don't have AC.
- Limit outdoor activities to the early morning or late evening hours when it is cooler.
- Place cool, damp cloths on forehead, arms and legs to help regulate body temperature
- Drink plenty of water.
- Eat lightly. Avoid meats and other proteins that increase metabolic heat.
- Wear lightweight, light colored clothing.
For more tips on how to keep yourself and others safe during this heatwave, visit The Weather Channel's WeatherREADY page.
Sources
Megan Abrams - I have lived with the effects of a childhood stroke for more than half my life and offer a uniquely personal perspective on disability.
Join the Conversation