People of all ages are sensitive to extremes in temperature. But as you age, your body may become less able to respond to extremely hot or cold temperatures.

Here are some tips for staying healthy during extreme weather:

• Drink plenty of water.• Avoid long periods in the direct sun or in unventilated rooms.• Keep air conditioning or fans running.• Avoid vigorous activity when it is hot and humid.• Reschedule activities for cooler times of the day.• Wear light-colored, lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.• Wear a hat or other head covering when out in the sun.• Wear appropriate sunscreen protection.• Take frequent cool baths or showers and remain in a cool place.• Eat small, light meals and eat often.• Check with your doctor about medication.• Stay in contact with friends or relatives, especially if you live alone. Check on friends who live alone frequently.

• Heat cramps — Painful spasms usually in leg and abdominal muscles. Heavy sweating. To treat, apply firm pressure on cramping muscles or gentle massage to relieve spasm. Give sips of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue.• Heat exhaustion — Heavy sweating, weakness, skin may be cold, pale and clammy. Weak pulse. Normal temperature possible. Fainting, vomiting. To treat, get the victim to lie down in a cool place. Loosen clothing. Apply cool, wet cloths. Fan or move victim to air-conditioned place. Give sips of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue. If vomiting occurs, seek immediate medical attention.• Heat stroke (Sun Stroke) — High body temperature; hot, dry skin. Rapid, strong pulse. Possible unconsciousness. Victim will likely not sweat. Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency. To treat, dial 911 or emergency medical services or get the victim to a hospital immediately. Delay can be fatal. Move victim to a cooler environment. Try a cool bath or sponging to reduce body temperature. Remove clothing. Use fans and/or air conditioners. Do not give fluids.Information provided by the Butler Area Agency on Aging and Grove Manor Nursing Home in Grove City.<B><I> </B></I>