Periods of extreme heat can quickly become dangerous for the most vulnerable, especially babies and the elderly. Understanding warning signs, prevention methods, and emergency measures will help you get through heat waves with peace of mind.
What is an “oppressive heat wave”?
Ah, summer! The beauty of parks and gardens, the songs of birds, and, of course, the warmth of the sun help us recharge our batteries before the harsh winter returns. Although usually invigorating, the heat can become extreme when the mercury rises and the humidity sets in.
When the weather forecast predicts a temperature of 30 degrees Celsius or higher and a humidex index (which combines temperature and humidity into a single measurement to reflect the perceived temperature) of 40 or higher, Environment Canada issues an extreme heat warning. This is known as a heat wave, and it poses health risks, particularly for babies and the elderly.
What are the effects of a heat wave on the body?
As a result of global warming, periods of extreme heat are becoming more frequent, longer-lasting and more intense. Extreme heat increases the risk of dehydration. In addition to symptoms such as dry mouth, low blood pressure and muscle cramps, dehydration caused by overexposure to heat can lead to heatstroke.
Heatstroke occurs when the body overheats and is unable to cool itself. This condition can cause fever, headaches, dizziness, loss of consciousness and, in the worst cases, death. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.
For more details, see our articles on the subject: Heat stroke: how to prevent and treat it and Dehydrating in summer is risky!
Extreme heat also predisposes to other health problems, including:
- Heat edema (swelling);
- Heat rash;
- Heat cramps;
- Heat exhaustion.
What are the symptoms of heatstroke in babies?
Thermal regulation in infants is not fully developed: they do not sweat as much as adults and cool down less efficiently. Signs of heatstroke in a baby may include:
- Acute body temperature (often over 39°C);
- Very hot, red and dry skin (little or no perspiration);
- Severe irritability or, conversely, drowsiness;
- Persistent crying without relief;
- Vomiting or difficulty eating.
Caution: If any of these symptoms appear, it is crucial to act immediately to avoid complications. Ask your pharmacist for advice or, depending on the severity of your symptoms, go to the nearest emergency room.
What are the signs that a baby is overheated?
Even before reaching the critical stage of heatstroke, a baby suffering from heatstroke may show several warning signs. It is important to pay particular attention to the following signs:
- A flushed face and noticeable small wrinkles on the skin;
- Agitated behaviour, difficult to calm;
- Shorter naps or interrupted sleep;
- A faster-than-normal breathing rate;
- Frequent need to breastfeed or bottle-feed to compensate for water loss.
How can I prevent heatstroke in a baby?
Because of their different metabolisms, babies are particularly sensitive to heat. Vigilance is the order of the day in extreme heat, and the following tips will help you take good care of your precious little one:
- When you are at home, leave your child in a diaper. They will sweat less and therefore have less water loss to compensate for.
- Make them drink regularly.
- Place a fan in their room.
- Give them two or three baths a day to refresh them.
- Cover your child's head if you're going out, and keep exposure to the heat to a minimum.
How long does heatstroke last in a baby?
If treatment is administered quickly, it only takes a few hours to stabilize the temperature and see the symptoms disappear.
However, if treatment is delayed, the child's recovery may take 24 to 48 hours, with strict rest and intensive hydration.
Tip: If in doubt, continue to monitor your baby's condition for at least two days after an episode to ensure that no after-effects persist.
What should you do if your baby gets heatstroke?
- Call emergency services (911) immediately;
- Undress the baby and move them to a cool, shady area;
- Cool the body with moist compresses on the forehead, nape of the neck and armpits;
- Hydrate immediately with water or milk according to age and needs;
- Continuously monitor temperature and behaviour.
Are sunstroke symptoms different?
Sunstroke, often more benign than heatstroke, results from prolonged unprotected exposure to the sun, and is characterized by throbbing headaches, nausea or mild dizziness. Although regulatory mechanisms are not always at fault, it is essential to intervene quickly to prevent the situation from worsening.
What are the risks for the elderly?
The elderly are generally more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat, especially if they:
- Are taking certain medications or have conditions that reduce their tolerance to heat;
- Are physically and socially isolated;
- Are experiencing a loss of independence.
Certain medications can interfere with the body's thermoregulatory mechanisms, predisposing a person to heat-related illnesses. Don't hesitate to ask your pharmacist if your medication can have such an effect.
Certain medical conditions increase the risk of heatstroke or other heat-related illness. What's more, extreme heat can exacerbate certain chronic illnesses. You should therefore take extra care if you suffer from any of the following conditions:
- Cardiovascular disease (e.g., heart failure);
- Lung diseases (e.g., emphysema, asthma);
- Kidney failure or disease;
- Neurological diseases;
- Hypertension;
- Diabetes.
Did you know? If you are taking medication, it is important to consult your doctor or pharmacist before exposure to the sun. The risks of photosensitization must be taken seriously.
Some advice for the elderly to protect themselves from a heat wave
- Drink more water than usual.
- Avoid outdoor activities during a heatwave. Why take unnecessary risks?
- Limit your intake of tea, coffee and alcohol to avoid dehydration. If you can't do without it, drink more water.
- Rest.
- If possible, stay in an air-conditioned room.
When should you seek medical attention for heatstroke?
Whether you are a young child or an elderly person, it is important to consult a healthcare professional or go to the emergency room in the following cases:
- Altered consciousness (confusion, extreme drowsiness);
- Repeated vomiting or inability to hydrate;
- Respiratory problems (rapid breathing, difficulty breathing);
- Convulsions, loss of consciousness.
Prompt treatment reduces the risk of long-term effects.
Air conditioning, useful during a heat wave
As well as contributing to our comfort, air conditioning is one of the most effective means of protection against heat-related illnesses. However, it is crucial to use and maintain your air conditioner properly. In fact, if it is set too high or is not clean enough, it can cause infections, intensify allergy symptoms, and worsen respiratory diseases such as asthma.
Before installing an air conditioner, take the time to read our article, which will give you all the details you need to know before using it: Air conditioning and its effects on health.
When in doubt, ask your Jean Coutu affiliated pharmacist for advice on heat, hydration and medication. Stay alert and take the right precautions so you can enjoy the beautiful summer days with peace of mind!
