Heat Stroke in Charleston

The risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion, increases with age. As people get older they are less able to adapt to high temperatures, like what Charleston has experienced as of late. As a result, the heat might exacerbate any medical conditions they have. In addition, older folks may develop certain health problems that could increase their risk of hyperthermia. Research show these risk include:

• Underlying diseases such as congestive heart failure, diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
• Trouble walking or moving around.
• Dementia or other problems with thinking skills.
• Overweight or obesity.
• Dehydration.
• Age-related changes to the skin, including reduced function in sweat glands.

Medications that older people take may cause dehydration or affect the ability of their heart, blood vessels or sweat glands to respond to the heat, the NIA experts added. An elderly person's environment can also influence their response to the heat. For instance, not having access to air conditioning or transportation, or overdressing could put them at greater risk for heat-related illnesses involving hyperthermia, including heat fatigue; heat syncope (lightheadedness or fainting in the heat); heat cramps; and heat exhaustion.

Signs of Heat Stroke

When the body's temperature hits 104 degrees Fahrenheit, heat stroke sets in. Signs that someone is suffering from heat stroke may include: a strong, rapid pulse; lack of sweating; dry flushed skin; faintness; staggering; and mental status changes, such as confusion, combativeness, disorientation or even coma, the experts noted. While there are times heat stroke is just a regrettable accident, there is an increase in the times it is not. When elder care care has been entrusted to a nursing home of home health care provider, they have a standard of care to adhere. When the employees of a nursing home fail to do so, they're actions may be deemed negligent.

Heat Stroke Attorney

If an elderly person in your family has suffered a heat stroke, contact the Clore Law Group now. They understand nursing homes are required to follow state and federal laws in order to maintain their license and stay in operation. When abuse or negligence occurs, nursing homes often try to hide what has happened and deny any knowledge of a problem. At the Clore Law Group, they work with investigators and medical experts in exposing nursing home neglect and abuse that result in serious injury and death