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Hypothermia in the Elderly:Symptoms and Risks

Hypothermia in the Elderly:Symptoms and Risks

Hypothermia is not a disease but a condition that should be worrying. It results in an involuntary drop in body temperature. Hypothermia is confirmed when the internal body temperature is below 35°C. The health consequences can be serious, especially in the elderly who are more at risk than the rest of the population. What causes hypothermia? How to identify the symptoms of a drop in body temperature? How to act? Answers.

All about body temperature

We often hear that the body temperature should be 37°C. This is not correct! It should be between 36.5°C and 37.5°C. Body temperature can vary over the course of a day and even over a lifetime. These changes are due to:

  • physical activity,
  • the time of day,
  • the outside temperature,
  • the presence of a pathology,
  • age.

You should know that the elderly are people at risk. Their body has more difficulty maintaining a so-called normal body temperature.

Variations in body temperature

Hypothermia

When the body temperature of a person, including an elderly person, drops below 35°C, it is called hypothermia. This state is accompanied by many symptoms that we will develop later. In general, hypothermia weakens and represents a real danger to health. Seniors are particularly concerned by the risk of hypothermia. Why ? Because the body is more tired, it no longer functions optimally. People who suffer from a chronic pathology are also more vulnerable.

Hyperthermia

Hypothermia is caused by a drop in body temperature. Hyperthermia, on the other hand, is characterized by an increase in body temperature. We speak of hyperthermia when the temperature is above 38°C. The causes of hyperthermia are as follows:

  • physical changes,
  • climate change,
  • sunshine,
  • intense heat,
  • intense physical activity,
  • drug use,
  • fever…

Symptoms of hyperthermia are drier skin, bad mood, heart rhythm disturbances, confusion, stress, feeling unwell.

Hypothermia in the elderly

Hypothermia is a dangerous condition for health. It is proven if the body temperature is below 35°C. If it is between 32°C and 35°C, the hypothermia is moderate. It is severe if the temperature drops below 32°C. Unfortunately, older people do not have the ability to fully control their body temperature. The risk of hypothermia in seniors is therefore more frequent. Why ? As the body ages, blood circulation slows down. The body has difficulty retaining heat.

A person who has already had hypothermia is more likely to repeat episodes of the same type. Other risk factors exist such as seniors who have had a CVA (cerebrovascular accident), those who suffer from hypothyroidism and heart problems.

What are the signs of hypothermia?

Hypothermia in the elderly must be identified and treated very quickly. Here are the warning signs.

  • Feeling cold
  • Chills
  • Pain
  • Rigidity of the upper and lower limbs
  • Slurred speech
  • Respiratory rate slowed
  • Lower in blood pressure

It is essential to know the symptoms of hypothermia. Indeed, if it is too important, the elderly person is in danger. Vital functions are undermined, especially the cardiovascular system. We must act quickly.

How to prevent hypothermia in the elderly?

It is essential to prevent hypothermia in the elderly. To do this, you must know how to identify the symptoms associated with this condition. In addition, risks must be identified and reduced. Here are some preventive measures to take to avoid hypothermia in seniors.

A healthy lifestyle

Having a healthy lifestyle is essential for good health. We know it. What we know less is that this healthy lifestyle can also slow down aging. What to do ?

  • Eat a balanced diet including fruits, vegetables, dairy products, cereals, lean meats, fish, legumes and starches. Foods should be unprocessed. Home cooking is always preferred.
  • Hydrate properly. It is important to drink at least 1.5 liters every day and even 2 liters in case of hot weather. Also remember to drink throughout the year! Of course, you have to drink water, but you can also hydrate yourself with tea or infusions.
  • Enjoy regular physical activity. Thus, you will reduce the risk of disease and you will boost your cardiovascular system.
  • Keep a pleasant temperature in your home to protect yourself from the cold. In summer, try to cool the place and in winter, heat it enough. You must also make sure that you have a heating system in good condition.
  • Wear warm clothes or simply suitable for the temperature. This often helps prevent hypothermia. So don't hesitate to take an extra sweater when you go for a walk.
  • Also bring quality bed linen. In winter, you can bet on flannel which will be warmer. Feel free to add a blanket on your bed.

It is important to consult your doctor as soon as you notice that you have symptoms of hypothermia. Most often, it is possible to find solutions so that hypothermia does not endanger your life.