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A team of scientists says they found evidence that - specifically, the extreme weather fluctuations associated with the phenomena - can make worse. Those who suffer from migraines, Alzheimer's, or have an increased risk of stroke need to ensure they sleep in a cooler space, or at least one with a consistent temperature. Last week, journal published a study that found that extreme heat can affect sleep, and that's a big factor in neurological cases.

"Evidence suggests that the incidence, prevalence, and severity of many nervous system conditions (eg, stroke, neurological infections, and some mental health disorders) can be affected by climate change," says the study. Lead researcher Sanjay Sisodiya, a professor at the University College London Queen Square Institute of Neurology, and his team, analyzed hundreds of studies dating back to 1963 to get to their conclusion. "The data shows broad and complex adverse effects, especially of temperature extremes to which people are unaccustomed and wide diurnal temperature fluctuations.



Protective measures might be possible through local forecasting," Sisodiya writes. The risk of stroke increases on a hot day for anyone who suffers from heart problems or high blood pressure. For patients diagnosed with Alzheimer's and dementia, the researchers found that the presence of these brain disorders in combination with a hot day makes them more susceptible to things like heat stroke or hypothermia.

Older patients with dementia and Alzheimer's .

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