People at Risk With Extreme Heat

As June turned to July and now approaching August, the temperatures are on the rise. Not only is it hot, but the humidity in the air can feel stifling. 

Because of that, heat stroke is something that you have to be careful about. Even smaller heat problems can quickly become problems, so it is important that you take care of yourself and those who are easily affected by the heat. 

Though it affects us all, heat can really affect some people more than others. Here are some people that are more at risk for suffering from a heat-related problem than others. 

The elderly are more affected by the heat. These people may have certain conditions which will make them more susceptible to the heat. They may also take certain medications which can affect how they handle the heat. 

Many are still living alone, which can make it scary for family and friends. Something could happen, and nobody would know about it, which is why you should keep a closer eye on your elderly family, friends, and neighbors to make sure that they are doing alright during these heat waves. 

Babies and children are also more susceptible. You need to make sure that you keep an eye on any babies and young children that are outside during this heat. Babies need to be kept out of the sun as much as possible.

Young children can get to playing, and they don't think about drinking. They can keep going until their body is dehydrated and they have a heat-related problem. They don't always stay in the shade, because they are too busy having fun. You also need to be careful with playground equipment. It can get so hot that it can burn them!

Mothers who are pregnant or breastfeeding need to be extra careful. Their bodies are busy growing new life (or nourishing one). They will need to make sure that they are keeping their bodies hydrated, by drinking as much water as they possibly can.

Certain medical conditions can make one more susceptible to the heat. These conditions include heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and other diseases. Those who struggle with mental illness may also find themselves struggling with the heat. 

Even those who struggle with mobility may be more affected, as well as those who aren't able to communicate their discomfort. They may find themselves out in the heat, and can't get back inside where they are more comfortable.

Certain medications also affect our ability to handle the heat. If you are taking any medications, you need to talk to your doctor before you spend time in the sun. Many medications that you may take for your blood pressure, heart conditions, and even seizure disorders can affect your body's reaction to the sun and heat. You even need to be careful if you take certain allergy medications and medications used for mental health conditions.

You also need to think about those who are overweight. Their bodies may overheat much faster than someone who is at a better weight. 

If you know someone who works outside (or even exercises outside), you need to keep an eye on them. They don't always have a choice but to spend hours out in the hot sun all day. They are also often working during the hottest part of the day, instead of trying to do what they can early in the morning and late in the evening.

Though everyone that you know may be struggling with this heat, the truth is that there are many people who may be struggling more. You need to watch out for those who are older, as well as babies and young children. Young children aren't going to drink enough for all of the sweating that they are doing! People with certain medical conditions may also struggle, especially those on certain medications! You also need to keep an eye on those who work outside. They don't have a choice but to be out in the hot sun all day!

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Previously published on Medium and/or Newsbreak.