Heat Stroke Long-Term Effects in Seniors: What to Know

What are the heat stroke long-term effects in seniors? Heat stroke is one of the most common heat-related illnesses you can suffer from during extreme temperatures. According to the CDC, anyone over 65 is more prone to heat-related health problems.

A heat stroke is not a one-time event because the effects may last for a prolonged period. Seniors in Friendswood, TX, face a greater risk of heat stroke as temperatures often exceed 100°F. However, Morada Friendswood has gained a stellar reputation due to its commitment to improving the welfare of seniors.

Let's explore all you need to know about the long-term effects of heat stroke.

Long-Term Effects of Heat Stroke

Global warming is causing dramatic changes in the climate, resulting in warmer summers and colder winters. Texas will likely experience more frequent, intense heat waves that put you at risk of heat stroke.

Exposure to high temperatures, even briefly, can have lasting effects. Heat stroke long-term effects that you need to be on the lookout for include the following:

Cognitive Impairment

Heat stroke can have lasting neurological damage among seniors. Research by the Cleveland Clinic found that heat strokes can leave seniors with different cognitive impairments, such as:

Difficulty forming new memories
Slurred speech
Cerebellar damage leading to problems with balance and coordination

Seniors who suffer from heat stroke are also at a higher risk of accelerated cognitive decline if they have dementia. Long-term mental impairment associated with heat stroke may also result in difficulty concentrating and exacerbate pre-existing decline.

Impaired Kidney Function

Heat stroke associated with dehydration can severely damage the kidneys. Reduced blood flow to the kidneys during a heat stroke can also worsen pre-existing problems. Consequently, you may find yourself at greater risk of future kidney conditions.

Prolonged exposure to heat with no subsequent treatment can cause permanent damage to the kidneys. Severe cases may end up needing dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Chronic Heart Conditions

The body's cardiovascular system is under significant stress during a heat stroke. The strain on the heart to regulate the body's temperature can lead to different health risks, such as:

Difficulty regulating blood pressure
Exacerbated risk of heart failure
Weakening of the heart's muscles
Increased susceptibility to cardiovascular events

Aging and extreme heat pose complex health challenges, especially for seniors with pre-existing conditions. Morada Senior Living in Friendswood recognizes heat stroke and the adverse health risk it poses. This is why our staff provides hydration tips for elderly adults to mitigate against heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses.

Muscle Weakness and Reduced Mobility

Excessive body temperatures can damage muscle cells, leading to tissue breakdown. In some cases, this can even lead to rhabdomyolysis, further exacerbating the physical weakness caused by heat stroke.

Impaired muscle function is usually evident through persistent feelings of weakness and reduced mobility. You may also face an increased risk of falls and require rehabilitation to regain functionality.

Senior living in Friendswood, TX, features health and fitness programs to improve overall health and wellness.

Signs of Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is an acute condition marked by the body's inability to regulate temperature. Heat stroke or hyperthermia is the most severe heat-related illness. The body temperature can get very high during a heat stroke, even exceeding 104°F.

Seniors are disproportionately affected by heat stroke, and exposure to high temperatures, such as during summer, can be a causative factor. Apart from the weather, other senior heat illness risks include intense physical activity and staying in a house without air conditioning.

Some of the early signs of heat stroke include:

Dizziness
Confusion and delirium
Fainting, vomiting, and nausea
Blurred vision and rapid heartbeat

Untreated heat exhaustion can also lead to heat stroke. However, the condition may have a sudden onset without any warning signs. When this occurs, you need medical attention immediately because the longer you wait, the more you're at risk of suffering long-term health complications.

Interventions for Recovery After Heat Stroke

The best way to avoid the long-term effects of heat stroke is through fast interventions. The first step is to move to a cooler environment and switch to more open clothing. Drinking lots of water can also help.

Consult a physician if your body temperature doesn't fall within the normal range despite the interventions.

Some warm weather safety tips include:

Avoiding alcohol and caffeine
Wearing loose-fitting clothing
Staying indoors
Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen if you have to go outside

According to the National Institute on Aging, seniors with medical conditions such as heart and lung disease are at a higher risk of heat stroke. Such conditions require multiple prescriptions.

Consequently, adequate medication management can be an important intervention for preventing the long-term effects of heat stroke. Fortunately, that's where senior living in Friendswood, TX comes in. As residents, seniors can get professional care at any time of the day.

How Morada Friendswood Assisted Living Community Prevents Heat-Related Illnesses

Seniors living in Texas are at a greater risk of heat-related illnesses, as temperatures can get very high. Even staying indoors may not be enough to protect yourself from heat-related illnesses, especially if you don't have air conditioning.

Assisted living in Friendswood, TX, offers the best environment to protect seniors against heat stroke. The infrastructure behind each living option is specifically designed to provide a safe living space for seniors. Each apartment has its own air conditioning and HVAC system for temperature regulation.

The staff will also monitor seniors for early recognition of heat illness and implement interventions. Other ways Morada Friendswood assisted living mitigates against the risk of heat-related illness include:

Personalized care and support
Individual climate control
Scheduled and supervised outdoor activities during cool times

Understanding Heat Stroke Long-Term Effects in Seniors Today

Heat stroke long-term effects are complex and will often vary depending on exposure and pre-existing medical conditions. The best way to avoid the condition is to stay in an environment with minimal risk of heat-related illnesses.

Recognized as the best retirement community in Friendswood, TX, Morada Friendswood has everything you need to enjoy life as a senior. From sensational dining and concierge services to housekeeping and maintenance, our highly trained staff implements different programs to improve your well-being.

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