Conditions That Raise Heatstroke Risk
One should be knowledgeable about conditions and behaviors that drastically increase the risk of heat stroke. While some people are more vulnerable to sunstroke than others, anyone can be affected. Read through these risk factors and carefully reconsider any activity that would put yourself or others in danger. They are as follows:
● AGE - Age can be a very strong risk factor in determining heatstroke vulnerability. The persons most at risk tend to be very young (age 4 or younger) or of advanced years (older than age 65).
● OBESITY - Obesity is an issue because it often means that the body cannot adequately regulate its temperature in extreme heat. This condition makes obese men and women very vulnerable to heatstroke.
● PRE-EXISTING MEDICAL CONDITIONS - Men and women with cardiovascular, respiratory, or renal diseases can be very susceptible to heat-related illness.
● DEHYDRATION - Failure to drink enough liquids prior to or while outdoors in exceedingly hot weather is hardly ever advisable. The body can lose fluid rapidly in these conditions.
● MEDICATIONS: Certain medications can cause dehydration as a side effect or affect the ability of the body to perspire as needed. It’s important to consult a doctor or pharmacist about how certain medicines can affect your risk of heatstroke.