The Impact of Extreme Heat on Neurological Ailments
In a recent study published in The Lancet Neurology journal, researchers found that extreme heat caused by climate change can exacerbate a variety of neurological ailments, from Alzheimer’s disease to migraines to epilepsy. The study, led by neurologist Sanjay Sisodiya from University College London, highlighted the detrimental effects of high temperatures on the brain’s wiring and overall function.
Sisodiya explained that the human brain functions optimally when exposed to temperatures between 68 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit. However, when temperatures exceed this range, the body’s components can become disrupted, leading to impaired communication between brain cells. This disruption can be attributed to factors such as dehydration, electrolyte losses, and psychological intolerance of heat induced by extreme temperatures.
Furthermore, the study revealed that extreme heat can have a significant impact on various neurological conditions, including epilepsy, schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and strokes. For example, heat waves can directly contribute to strokes, while increased pollution associated with extreme heat can compound the likelihood of having a stroke. Additionally, high temperatures can disrupt sleep patterns, affect medication supply chains, and indirectly aggravate mental health disorders.
One of the key findings of the study was the correlation between heat-related deaths and neurological conditions. During the 2003 European heat wave, around 20 percent of excess deaths were attributed to people with neurological diseases, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. The British Office for National Statistics reported that dementia and Alzheimer’s disease were the leading causes of excess heat-related deaths in England and Wales during heat waves.
As climate change continues to exacerbate extreme heat events, health authorities are warning that individuals with neurological conditions face additional risks during heat waves. The CDC emphasizes the importance of monitoring and protecting vulnerable populations, such as those with dementia, schizophrenia, and other mental illnesses, from the adverse effects of hot weather.
Overall, the study underscores the urgent need for proactive measures to address the impacts of climate change on neurological health. By raising awareness and implementing strategies to mitigate the effects of extreme heat, we can better protect individuals with neurological ailments and improve overall public health outcomes.