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Spinal-Injury.net : Spinal Cord Injury - Hyperthermia
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Because of your spinal cord injury, the temperature of your body
has an increased tendency to fluctuate according to the temperature
of the environment. If you are in a hot room your temperature may
increase (hyperthermia); if you are in a cold room, your temperature
may decrease (hypothermia). This occurs because of the altered function
of the autonomic nervous system. The higher the level of injury,
the greater the tendency for fluctuations in your body temperature.
Hyperthermia refers to an elevation in body temperature (overheating).
For example, it may occur on a hot day if you are out-of-doors,
sitting in a hot car, or covered with too many blankets. A consequence
of lesions above T6 is the body's inability to regulate body temperature
effectively anymore. This usually means an inability to perspire
/ sweat properly too.
One or more of the following symptoms may indicate hyperthermia:
Skin feels hot and dry and appears flushed.
Feeling of weakness
Dizziness
Visual disturbances
Headache
Nausea
Elevated temperature
Pulse is generally rapid and may be irregular or weak.
It is important that you attempt to prevent hyperthermia when exposed
to an overheated environment.
Be familiar with how long you can be in an overheated environment
without symptoms, Drink lots of fluids, Wear protective, light-weight
clothing (cotton and light colours) Wear a hat
If you do suffer from hyperthermia any time follow this advice:
Get out of the sun, or warm environment into a cool place,
preferably one that is air conditioned , drink fluids but avoid
alcohol and caffeine - water and fruit juices are best taking a
shower (where practicable) or sponging off with cool water
is a good idea too.
urge the person to lie down and rest, preferably in a cool place.
Seek medical assistance as soon as possible if symptoms persist.
Skin Breakdown
pneumonia
Osteoporosis and Fractures
Heterotopic Ossification
Spasticity
Urinary Tract Infections
Autonomic Dysreflexia
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Pulmonary Embolism
Orthostatic Hypotension
Cardiovascular Disease
Syringomyelia
Neuropathic / Spinal Cord Pain
Medication Problems
Hyperthermia
Hypothermia
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Spinal-Injury.net : Spinal Cord Injury - Hyperthermia
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