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[Changes in thermoregulation and age. Hypothermia and hyperthermia]
Bratislavske Lekarske Listy
|March 1, 1996
Summary
Thermoregulation changes with age, with infants and the elderly being most vulnerable to hypothermia. This review covers causes, mechanisms, and prevention of thermoregulation disturbances like hypothermia and hyperthermia.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Gerontology
- Pediatrics
Context:
- Thermoregulation is a critical physiological process that changes significantly across the lifespan.
- Infants and the elderly exhibit distinct thermoregulatory challenges compared to healthy adults.
- Environmental factors and internal heat production/expenditure impact body temperature regulation.
Purpose:
- To review age-related changes in human thermoregulation.
- To compare thermoregulation in infants and the elderly with healthy adults.
- To discuss the etiopathogenesis, pathomechanisms, treatment, and prevention of thermoregulatory disturbances.
Summary:
- This review examines age-dependent alterations in thermoregulation, highlighting increased susceptibility to hypothermia in infants and the elderly.
- It details the contributing factors to hypothermia, including environmental cold and impaired heat balance, and discusses intraoperative hypothermia.
- The review also addresses hyperthermia, primarily heatstroke, and outlines strategies for managing and preventing these thermoregulatory issues.
Impact:
- Provides a comprehensive overview of thermoregulation across different age groups.
- Enhances understanding of age-specific risks for hypothermia and hyperthermia.
- Offers insights into clinical management and preventative measures for thermoregulatory disorders.