Heat wave endangers children: consequences for brain development

Heat wave endangers children: consequences for brain development

The effects of heat on health are a growing issue, especially when it comes to the most vulnerable groups such as seniors and children. A new study reveals alarming findings about brain development in children who are frequently exposed to high temperatures. This raises questions about the long-term consequences for young people's mental health and cognitive abilities.

Heat as a threat to children's development

The research team led by Mònica Guxens from the Barcelona Institute for Global Health used MRI scans on almost 2,700 children between the ages of nine and twelve to find that children who were frequently exposed to high temperatures, above 30 degrees Celsius, up to the age of three had lower maturity in the white matter of the brain. This white matter is crucial for communication between different brain regions and plays a significant role in cognitive abilities.

A deeper look at the process

The body's physiological responses to heat are complex. According to anesthesiologist Thomas Bein, when temperatures are high, blood flow is diverted from the brain and digestive organs to the surface of the skin to release heat. This can lead to a lack of blood flow to the brain, which can have serious consequences for cognitive development.

The alarming side effects of heat

Not only children's brains are affected, the heart and other organs also suffer from the temperatures. The heart has to work harder due to the thin blood created by sweating, which increases the risk of a heart attack in people with existing health problems. In addition, massive inflammatory reactions of the immune system can occur due to heat illnesses, similar to sepsis. These effects also affect the kidneys, which are put under additional strain during heat waves.

Community precautions

Because of these dangers, it is crucial that not only public institutions but also individuals take action to protect themselves from the health risks of heat. Measures such as seeking shade, using air conditioning with a maximum temperature of 27 degrees and drinking enough fluids are essential to protect yourself and others.

How to properly hydrate yourself

Despite the popular belief that one should drink before thirst, scientific evidence shows that thirst is a good indicator of the body's water needs. However, older people, especially those with dementia, may no longer perceive their thirst properly, which is why they should be offered water regularly. In the heat, water and fruit juice spritzers are the best drinks, while alcoholic drinks should be avoided as they deprive the body of additional fluids.

The influence of diet and clothing

Not only is fluid intake important, diet also plays a role. Vitamin C, present in many fruits, can help the body cope with the heat better. Clothing is another factor: synthetic fabrics are often better at directing sweat to evaporate and regulating body temperature.

Conclusion: Dealing with heat responsibly

The challenge of dealing with extreme temperatures requires collective efforts from both society and individuals. Understanding and consciously addressing the health risks of heat is crucial in order to avoid long-term health damage, especially among vulnerable groups such as children and older people.