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Biological Problems - undesirable increases in
the following
Circulatory system
-cardiac workload
-high blood pressure
-blood LDLs and cholesterol
-atherosclerosis and
its consequences (heart attack, stroke, etc.)
Respiratory system
-work of breathing
-restriction in breathing
-unevenness of lower
lung ventilation
-pulmonary infection
from low ventilation
Nervous system
-difficulty moving
with Parkinson's disease
Skeletal system
-incidence of fractures
-joint problems
-problems from arthritis
Digestive system
-gall stones
Endocrine system
-incidence and severity
of diabetes mellitus
Miscellaneous problems
-greater incidence and injury from falls
-increased risk of overheating
-problems regulating drug doses
-difficulty with self-care
-less effective or less willing care from
care-givers
-poorer hygiene from difficult and restricted
movement, deep skin folds
-less enjoyment of activities due to restrictions
to freedom of movement and quicker onset of fatigue
-decreased self-esteem or self-image
-depression
© Copyright 1999 - Augustine G. DiGiovanna - All rights reserved.
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PERSPECTIVES by Augustine G. DiGiovanna, The McGraw-Hill Companies, New
York, 1994 or 2000; (2) If prior written permission is obtained
from Augustine G. DiGiovanna.