"Scorching Consequences: Heat Waves and Kidney Function in the Elderly"- A Review.

Heat waves pose significant health risks, particularly for the elderly, affecting renal function through dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and reduced renal perfusion.: Older adults exhibit increased serum creatinine and cystatin C levels during extreme heat due to age-related physiological changes, medication effects, and decreased renal reserve. These changes can lead to acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Comparative studies highlight the elderly's heightened vulnerability to heat-induced renal dysfunction compared to younger populations. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing interventions to protect this at-risk group. Heatwaves pose significant health risks to the elderly, particularly concerning renal dysfunction. Antihypertensive medications, such as thiazide diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and ARBs, exacerbate the increase in creatinine levels through mechanisms involving dehydration, impaired kidney perfusion, heightened AKI risk, age-related renal changes, and interactions with comorbidities. Comparative effects of these medications highlight distinct pathways leading to renal impairment during extreme heat. Preventive measures, including adequate hydration, access to cooling environments, and regular medication reviews, are critical. Additionally, dietary adjustments such as protein restriction, increased fiber intake, sodium control, and maintaining hydration can support kidney health. Public health strategies must focus on mitigating the impact of heatwaves on elderly kidney function, ensuring safety during antihypertensive therapy, and further research is needed to develop targeted interventions for extreme heat exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]