Heat Exhaustion & Heat Stroke for Seniors

Add comment July 21st, 2009

Whether it’s in the garden, on the golf course or taking in a local ball game, seniors should be aware of dangers related to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Because seniors tend to have decreased ability to sweat, tend to have medical issues and due to side effects of some medications, they are at risk of experiencing heat-related illness.

Heat exhaustion occurs when the body become overheated and dehydrated. Heavy sweating, rapid pulse, headache, fatigue, muscle cramps thirst, dizziness and nausea are all classic signs of heat exhaustion. It’s a good sign if you’re sweating profusely, as this is a sign of heat exhaustion, not heat stroke. If you are a senior enjoying a round of golf  at noon in August,  there’s great potential for heat exhaustion. Time to get out of the sun and relax in the clubhouse!

Heat stroke is a medical emergency and can be fatal.  It occurs when the body’s temperature gets too high and the body is unable to cool itself.  Symptoms include rapid pulse, difficulty breathing, unusual behavior, confusion, agitation, flushed skin and/or seizure. Don’t look for sweating, as many people with heat stroke do not sweat.  Seniors need to immediately get out of the sun and into the shade or air-conditioning–do whatever you can to lower the person’s temp.  When in doubt whether or not someone has heat stroke, call 911 and get emergency medical treatment.

This summer, seniors should remember to drink plenty of fluids; stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day; wear loose-fitting, cotton clothing; take cool showers; limit alcohol & caffeine consumption; and, enjoy air conditioning!

Sleep Apnea in Children

Add comment July 16th, 2009

People of all ages of sizes can devolp sleep apnea, a disorder in which people actually stop breathing in their sleep. Undiagnosed and untreated sleep apnea may contribute to daytime fatigue and behavior problems. According to a recent study in the journal of the American College of Chest Physicians, children who snore loudly were twice as likely to have learning problems. Following a poor nights sleep, children are more likely to be hyperactive and have difficulty paying attention. These are also signs of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Sleep apnea may also be associated with delayed growth and cardiovascular problems. If your child is exhibiting symptoms of sleep apnea, talk to your doctor.

During the night, a child with sleep apnea may:
*Snore frequently and loudly.
*Have pauses in their breathing, gasps or snorts.
*Be a restless sleeper or sleep in abnormal positions.
*Sweat heavily in their sleep.

During the day, a child with sleep apnea may:
*Have behavioral, school and social problems.
*Have headaches during the day, but especially in the morning.
*Be irritable, agitated, aggressive and cranky.
*Fall asleep during the day.
*Speak with a nasal voice and breathe regulalry through their mouth.