Early Heat Waves Heighten Health Risks To Elderly And Children

May 23, 1996

GAINESVILLE—Early record-breaking high temperatures in many parts of the nation could mean danger for elders and young children if precautions are not taken.

“Common sense will play a major part in savings lives this summer,” said Ian Phillips, a University of Florida College of Medicine physiologist who has studied heat illnesses for more than 25 years. “To avoid a repeat of last summer’s tragic deaths of elders living in Chicago, everybody must become aware of the dangers of extreme heat and take some preventative measures.”

Extreme heat is a common cause of heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heat strokes. Heat also kills. On average, heat is a contributor to about 175 deaths annually, but extreme heat can lead to devastation, as witnessed in Chicago last year when more than 700 people lost their lives.

Phillips said elders and children are particularly susceptible to heat-related medical conditions because of a mechanism in the brain that triggers sweating.

“We have to have some way of restoring our normal blood temperature, when exposed to extreme heat or cold. The body is in a constant struggle to keep its fluid level balanced,” said Phillips. “The way our bodies function with heat is by sweating more, which causes cooling of the skin. The blood vessels vasodilate (open up), which acts like a radiator so that heat can be lost through the skin.

“In older people, the brain reflex is not so well controlled and their bodies tend not to sweat as much as when they were younger,” he said. “Lack of sweat leads to rapid heating or overheating. With babies, their brains are not fully developed so they are not able to control their body temperature.”

Heat cramps are muscular pains and spasms that occur mainly in the abdominal muscles and legs. To relieve a spasm, apply firm pressure or gently message the muscle. Heat exhaustion leaves its victims feeling tired, worn out and nauseous as the heat and heavy sweating cause blood flow to increase to the skin, decreasing flow to internal organs. Move the victim to a cool place and apply wet cloths. Give sips of water but if vomiting occurs, seek immediate medical attention.

Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related condition of the three. When heat stroke occurs, the body temperature is high (105 degrees or more) and the body does not sweat anymore, causing the skin to become dry and hot, there is a rapid pulse and possible unconsciousness. The high body temperature can cause brain damage. Death can result if the body is not cooled right away, according to experts with the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

When heat stoke symptoms occur the following measures should be taken:

• Call 911 for immediate emergency medical services.
• Do not give fluids!
• Soak in a cool bath or give a sponge bath until emergency medical services arrive.

Phillips stresses that parents and daycare workers have to use common sense when it comes to babies and young children. Each year, cases of death are reported from leaving children in cars in the heat.
“Babies, young children and even animals should never be left in a closed car for even a few minutes without air conditioning,” he said. “Cars heat up rapidly, so taking time to provide proper care for those who can’t help themselves will save lives in the long run.”

UF pediatrician Dr. Zaid Al-Mulla, adds that during extreme temperatures, children should not play outside for more than 25 to 30 minutes without a break.

“Children should wear a single layer of light-colored and light-weight clothing,” Al-Mulla said. “They also must be encouraged to drink plenty of water.”

To beat the heat you can stay cool by:

• Avoiding strenuous jobs during the hottest time of the day.
• Wearing loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and a wide brimmed hat when outside.
• Staying in cool dry places and turning on fans and air conditioners.
• Drinking plenty of fluids, even if you don’t feel like it.

Phillips stresses that the kind of beverage is important.
“Water is the best replenisher,” Phillips said. “We sweat to cool our bodies and the fluids lost have to be replaced even if we are not thirsty. Some people believe alcohol or caffeinated drinks beat their thirst, but these drinks actually dehydrate the body. Beverages with replacement salts such as Gatorade are acceptable.

“Elders and individuals who have to take medications should consult their physician to see if they are taking drugs that inhibit sweating or can aggravate heat-related conditions,” he said.

Where you live and areas you visit can also affect you.

“Northerners are used to long cold winters and when the temperature heats up rapidly, their bodies don’t have time to adjust,” said Phillips. “Most Floridians adapt to the heat a little easier because it happens less suddenly. Northerners and foreign visitors must take extra care when visiting warmer southern states including Florida and Texas.

“Visitors are not used to the humidity in Florida,” said Phillips. “Many are here to visit our theme parks and beaches. They are likely to walk around unprotected from the sun and heat.”

As a result of the deaths in Chicago, many organizations there and around the nation are taking preventive measures to protect their citizens.

“In the event of a heat wave or power outage, the city of Chicago has developed a comprehensive network system of volunteers who provide help to elders and other individuals,” said Henry Lock, spokesperson for the city’s human services department.

The federal government also provides funds to each state to assist elders in purchasing fans and paying their electricity bills. Contact your state government for more information and for safety tips on how to beat the heat, contact your local American Red Cross.