Hyperthermia vs. Hypothermia: Both May Pose a Risk in the Summer Months
Elder Care in Mason OH: Hyperthermia vs. Hypothermia: Both May Pose a Risk in the Summer Months
Hyperthermia is a condition in which the body overheats and poses a serious health risk. Hypothermia is the opposite. With hypothermia, the core body temperature drops to unsafe levels. You might think that with summer heat, only hyperthermia is possible, but that’s really not the case.
Your parents still live in the family home, but they’re needing more help around the house. You can’t always be there, so now is a good time to talk about the importance of keeping the core body temperature stable.
Dangers of Hyperthermia in the Summer
The elderly are more susceptible to overheating in the summer. They may not have the best judgment on how long to remain outside on a hot day. They may also not dress appropriately for the weather. On a hot summer’s day, you might find your parent reluctant to wear shorts and, instead, wear jeans and socks. To keep from burning, your mom might go outside wearing a long-sleeved sweater. Heavier clothing can raise the body temperature.
In hot weather, your parent may sweat more and lose vital fluids. If your mom or dad isn’t drinking enough, dehydration is a risk. It’s important that someone is keeping an eye on loved ones to make sure they’re not overheating. Common symptoms of hyperthermia include a rapid heart rate, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea.
Hypothermia Risks in the Summer
While hypothermia does seem to be more of a problem in the winter, it does occur in the summer. Your mom or dad may decide to cool off in a lake, pool, or stream and get too cold. If your mom lives in a climate where days are hot and nights can drop significantly, being outside at night or sleeping on top of the sheets with a window wide open can lead to a drop in the body’s core temperature.
Shivering is one of the key signs of hypothermia. If there’s no effort made to warm up, muscles may contract and the heart rate may slow down. With both hypothermia and hyperthermia, immediate medical attention is the best way to prevent complications.
If your mom or dad has a pool, live near a water source, or may not understand when they’ve been outside too long, you need to take action. It’s unlikely you can always be there. That’s where an elder care specialist can help. Let someone else be available to watch after your mom and dad when you have pressing appointments or work to do. Call an elder care agency today to learn more about the benefits of home care.
If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Mason, OH, please contact the caring staff at Queen City Elder Care today. Serving Cincinnati and Surrounding Communities. Call Us Today (513) 510-4410.
Michele Vollmer is a visionary leader who is perpetually searching for ways to improve, so to remain at the leading edge of the home care industry.She has served in the healthcare industry since 1989, including pharmaceutical and home health sales, as well as hospice sales and sales management.
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