Alfred Health News

As the summer heats up A/Prof Peter Hunter, Director of Aged Care Services at Alfred Health provides useful tips on how to stay cool.  

“On hot days it’s best to plan in advance. If you need to go outside, do so early in the day and keep yourself hydrated. If you are looking after others such as children or the elderly, make sure they take plenty of water and keep yourself in good health.”  

Professor Hunter’s tips for staying cool this summer are to: 

·         Stay well hydrated, drink at least two litres of water a day (that’s about two glasses an hour)
·         Don’t over exert yourself in the heat, limit activity
·         Do outdoor activities in the morning and stay indoors in the afternoon
·         Keep an eye on family members who may be living alone or who are elderly
·         Wear loose fitting clothing
·         Wear SPF and covered clothing while outside 

“Those most at risk are the frail and elderly, people taking certain medications (such as fluid tablets and heart medication) and those with pre-existing heart and kidney disease,” said Peter.  

Symptoms of heat stress include: 
·         thirst, sweating (but later dry skin)
·         lethargy and  tiredness, paleness and listlessness
·         dizziness and light headedness
·         reduced urine production (concentrated and smelly urine)
·         mild confusion 

While these symptoms may be less noticeable in older people, they can dramatically deteriorate and experience: 
·         collapse due to low blood pressure
·         florid colouring and agitation
·         a reduced conscious state
·         no urine output  

Please click to download the Staying healthy in the heat poster which can be used to promote heat health messages, or visit the following Department of Health site for more information on heatwaves: http://www.health.vic.gov.au/environment/heatwaves.htm

If you are feeling unwell, contact your local GP or nearest Emergency Department.