One of the most common triggers of health conditions is the weather. Hot and humid weather in particular can make skin conditions flare-up, as well as diseases like osteoarthritis. This WebMD article even suggests the risk of heart attacks increases with high humidity. Having high blood pressure can lead to heart attacks, and high humidity can cause a person’s blood pressure to rise. Whether you’re a senior or if you’re a caregiver providing senior care, here are some of the things you should know about the link between humidity and blood pressure.
Why Humidity Can Trigger High Blood Pressure
When the humidity level is at 70% or higher, a senior’s risk of high blood pressure increases. The reason is the heart has to sometimes circulate twice as much blood throughout the body and can become overworked. Sweating is a good thing to help cool the body down, but sometimes it’s not enough. Drinking plenty of water is essential, especially if you’re a senior who already deals with elevated blood pressure levels.
Look For Signs Of Humidity And Heat-Related Illness
Some of the signs of humidity-related or heat-related illnesses are difficult to detect since they are common everyday conditions. However, if you’ve spent time outdoors and notice some of the following signs, seek medical assistance or advice immediately:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Cramping muscles
- Headache
- Swollen body parts
- Clammy skin
- Rapid pulse
- Lethargy
- Confusion
- Lack of sweating
- Excessive sweating
It’s important to take a break from what you are doing, find a cold glass of water and a cool place immediately if you experience these symptoms while being outdoors. Every second makes a difference and could save your life the quicker you react.
Preventing Health Issues During Hot And Humid Weather
There are some simple solutions to consider when it comes to preventing health issues during the humid parts of the summer. Staying hydrated at all times, avoiding spending excessive time outdoors and eating a healthy diet are things everyone can be more conscious of. You could also take some strain off of your body by investing in a wheelchair ramp or a stair lift rather than having to go up and down stairs throughout the day. Seniors with mobility limitations may put their bodies through more strain than what’s necessary by using the stairs. A wheelchair ramp is easy for professionals to install and can help you reduce the amount of effort you put into simple tasks significantly.
Next Day Access understands the dangers of hot and humid weather when it comes to senior care. Having mobility aids and assistive devices can take the strain off of you physically, but they can also promote better overall health by making movements less strenuous. As we enter the hot and humid summer season, take a look around your house and see what may be causing you some problems with your mobility. And always feel free to Nous contacter to schedule a free home evaluation to see how we can help.
