A place where heatstroke is very likely to occur, which most people overlook

Many people misunderstand heatstroke, believing it only occurs after prolonged exposure to the sun and that staying indoors and avoiding direct sunlight will prevent it.

In fact, many cases of heatstroke are caused by staying indoors in a stuffy environment, especially among the elderly who don't like using air conditioning.

Elderly people who don't like using air conditioning are prone to heatstroke.

Recently, the emergency department of a well-known hospital admitted two patients with heatstroke at home, both caused by relying solely on fans for cooling during hot weather without air conditioning. The emergency department also admitted an elderly person suffering from heatstroke at night; due to the enclosed and humid environment of their home, they presented with symptoms such as high fever, weakness, and palpitations, with a body temperature reaching 39.1℃ upon arrival.

Some experts say that during the hottest days of summer, temperatures rise and humidity increases. If homes are kept closed for extended periods without ventilation, air circulation is impaired, leading to the accumulation of hot and humid air. When the temperature exceeds 32℃ and the relative humidity is greater than or equal to 60%, the body's heat dissipation is significantly hindered, and the risk of heatstroke increases significantly.

High temperature and humidity environments are especially difficult for the elderly.

As people age, the body's thermoregulation function gradually weakens, the ability to sweat declines, and the ability to sense temperature decreases. Therefore, the elderly may already have a high body temperature but do not feel it. Some elderly people are reluctant to turn on the air conditioner due to thrift or fear of cold drafts, only turning on the fan to cool down when it is unbearably hot, making them more prone to heatstroke.

The elderly and their families should pay close attention to their physical condition and deal with any abnormalities promptly. Heatstroke has the following stages:

• Heat exhaustion (prodromal symptoms): During heat exhaustion, there will be profuse sweating, thirst, dizziness, headache, blurred vision, tinnitus, and weakness in the limbs, while body temperature is usually normal.
• Mild heatstroke: Symptoms include mild to moderate fever, flushed or pale face, hot or cold and clammy skin, nausea and vomiting, rapid pulse, and decreased blood pressure. At this time, move the patient to a cool, well-ventilated, and quiet place to rest, and replenish fluids and electrolytes appropriately.
• Severe Heatstroke: This condition is more critical and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Excessive sweating after exercise can easily induce fever and cramps, which is more common in young adults; the elderly and patients with chronic diseases often experience heat exhaustion, typically manifested as excessive sweating, cold and clammy skin, pale complexion, and decreased blood pressure. In the most severe cases, heatstroke may occur, with patients experiencing high fever, accompanied by delirium, convulsions, coma, and other severe impairments of consciousness.

In the event of any of these dangerous situations, immediately call emergency services or take the patient to a hospital. Simultaneously, immediately move the patient to a cool, well-ventilated place, and use damp towels, ice packs, fans, etc., to moderately cool them down.

In summer, outdoor temperatures are hot and humid, and the elderly tend to spend more time at home due to reduced outdoor activity. To create a comfortable and livable indoor space, do the following:

1. Control temperature and humidity; don't try to tough it out if you feel hot.

   Keep a thermometer and hygrometer at home. If the temperature and humidity are too high, turn on the air conditioner to cool down. While the cooling mode provides a strong airflow and direct cold air, prolonged use can quickly lower the room temperature, but the air may still remain damp and sticky.

   Short-term use of dehumidification mode, depending on the indoor humidity, helps sweat evaporate normally, lowering the temperature while keeping the body dry. It's recommended to set the air conditioner temperature between 26℃ and 28℃, ensuring the indoor and outdoor temperature difference does not exceed 7℃. When indoor humidity drops to 40% to 60%, sweat can evaporate normally, directly lowering the perceived temperature by 2 to 4℃.

2. Proper ventilation is key to warding off indoor heat.

   Many elderly people keep doors and windows tightly closed all day, which is a mistake. During the hottest part of the day, windows can be closed while using air conditioning, but in the cooler mornings and evenings, windows should be opened for 20-30 minutes. When using air conditioning, ventilate every 2-3 hours, or leave a small crack in the window to allow air circulation.

   Alternatively, when the outdoor temperature is low, place a fan one or two meters away from the open window, directing the airflow directly at the window to accelerate air circulation and quickly lower the temperature. Placing green plants such as pothos and spider plants indoors can help dissipate some heat through transpiration.

3. To avoid dehydration, replenish electrolytes frequently.

   Experts suggest that older adults actively replenish fluids, drinking a small glass of warm water every 1-2 hours even if they are not thirsty. They can increase their water intake before and after meals or medication to maintain fluid balance.

   Daily water intake should be at least 1500-2000 ml. Those with heart or kidney diseases should follow their doctor's advice regarding water intake. When sweating excessively, a suitable amount of salt and sugar can be added to the water. In addition, mung bean soup, plum juice, and lotus seed and lily bulb porridge are good choices for relieving heat. Try to drink less or avoid cold drinks and sugary beverages.