A study by World Weather Attribution, including researchers from the University of Oxford, published on 13 July, highlights the impact of climate change on heat waves, which can lead to severe dehydration and increase the risk of brain clots. This research underscores the growing health risks associated with extreme weather events, emphasizing the need for urgent climate action to mitigate these adverse effects.
In 2023, the hottest year on record, and continuing into 2024 with 11 consecutive months of record-breaking global temperatures, the link between climate change and severe health outcomes has become more pronounced. Over the past year, extreme heat conditions have affected a staggering portion of the global population, with India alone reporting over 16,000 heat stroke cases and 60 heat-related deaths since March 2024. These conditions contribute to dehydration, which can lead to thicker blood and an increased risk of brain clots.
How Dehydration Causes a Clot in the Brain
Due to high heat waves, the body loses excessive water in the form of sweating. When the inflow of water inside the body is lower than the outflow, it can cause dehydration. When dehydration occurs, it causes the reduction of plasma (the liquid component in the body), which then leads to an increase in the concentration of red blood cells and platelets.
As the concentration of these components increases, it leads to thicker and more viscous blood. This results in slower blood flow inside the veins and arteries. Slower blood flow can lead to stagnation, especially in the extremities, where circulation is already less efficient. This stagnation can create an environment conducive to clot formation.
Blood clots form as a natural response to injury or bleeding. However, during dehydration, these clots can form unnecessarily, resulting in clots within the blood vessels. If a clot forms in a critical area such as the brain, it can obstruct blood flow and oxygen delivery, leading to a stroke or other serious health issues.
How Does This Clot Damage the Brain?
A blood clot in the brain, known as a cerebral thrombosis, can lead to permanent brain damage through a process called ischemic stroke. A blood clot can block a blood vessel in the brain, preventing blood and oxygen from reaching brain tissue. Without oxygen, brain cells begin to die within minutes, and the area of the brain affected by the lack of blood flow will start to suffer damage.
The death of brain cells leads to a loss of function in the body parts controlled by that area of the brain. For example, a clot in the part of the brain responsible for movement could cause paralysis on one side of the body. If the blood supply is not quickly restored, the damage can become permanent.
Brain cells do not regenerate like other cells in the body, so any loss is typically irreversible. The extent of recovery depends on the size and location of the clot and how quickly treatment is administered. Rehabilitation can help regain some functions, but some deficits may remain permanent.
Symptoms
- Extreme Thirst
- Reduced Urination
- Dry Mouth and Tongue
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or Light-headedness
- Confusion
- Rapid Heartbeat
- Rapid Breathing
- Sunken Eyes
- Lack of Skin Elasticity
Brain Diseases
Blood clots in the brain can lead to several types of brain diseases or conditions, including:
Ischemic Stroke: The most common type of stroke, occurring when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel and cuts off blood flow to part of the brain.
Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Often called a mini-stroke, a TIA is a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain that doesn’t cause permanent damage but may be a warning sign of a future stroke.
Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis (CVST): A rare type of stroke that occurs when a blood clot forms in the brain’s venous sinuses, preventing blood from draining out of the brain.
Cerebral Hemorrhage: Although not caused by a clot, a cerebral hemorrhage can occur after a clot is treated or dissolves, leading to bleeding within the brain.
Vascular Dementia: A decline in thinking skills caused by conditions that block or reduce blood flow to various regions of the brain, potentially resulting from multiple small strokes caused by clots.
Brain Aneurysm: While not directly caused by clots, an aneurysm can be exacerbated by conditions that affect blood flow and pressure, leading to a risk of rupture and bleeding in the brain.
Solutions (My Personal Method)
One of my personal methods to counter dehydration is to keep a water bottle close to me in my room. This makes it easier to access water because, often when we are studying or working, we feel too lazy to go out and grab a glass of water. This method solves this issue. Secondly, I use a notification app that reminds me to drink water regularly, which has helped me to reach the target of 3-4 liters per day (the ideal water intake for an adult).
Conclusion
The study by World Weather Attribution highlights the critical impact of climate change on human health, particularly through the increased frequency and severity of heat waves. Dehydration from these heat waves can lead to serious conditions such as brain clots and strokes, underscoring the urgent need for climate action. By understanding the mechanisms through which dehydration can cause such health issues, we can better prepare and protect ourselves. Simple measures like staying hydrated can make a significant difference in preventing severe health outcomes. It is essential for individuals and policymakers alike to prioritize actions that mitigate the effects of climate change and protect public health.
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