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Physiological and haematological responses to cold exposure in the elderly
L Bøkenes1, T E Alexandersen, B Østerud
1Department of Medical Physiology, Institute of Clinical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tromsø. lise@fagmed.uit.no
International Journal of Circumpolar Health
|February 24, 2001
Summary
Mild cold exposure in elderly individuals increases blood clotting factors and inflammation, potentially explaining higher winter cardiovascular disease mortality. This study investigated haemostatic system changes following cold exposure in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Cardiovascular Health
- Gerontology
Background:
- Increased winter mortality from cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is observed across Europe.
- Cold climate is associated with high CVD mortality, but underlying mechanisms remain unclear.
- Previous research suggests cold exposure may increase mortality risk in the elderly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of mild cold exposure on the haemostatic system in healthy elderly individuals.
- To determine if cold exposure alters thrombogenic risk factors in older adults.
Main Methods:
- Healthy elderly men and women (60-70 years) were exposed to mild cold (16°C) or thermoneutral (28°C) conditions for 90 minutes.
- Autonomic and haematological parameters were measured to assess cold stress effects.
- Changes in blood parameters related to clotting and fibrinolysis were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Autonomic responses confirmed mild cold exposure in participants.
- Cold exposure led to increased hemoconcentration (blood concentration).
- A significant increase in the fibrinolytic parameter, tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA), was observed.
Conclusions:
- Short-term, mild cold exposure in the elderly can trigger a mild inflammatory response.
- Cold exposure appears to induce a tendency towards a hypercoagulable state (increased blood clotting).
- These haemostatic changes may contribute to the increased cardiovascular risk observed during winter in older populations.
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