Extremely high temperatures affect the body and mind in various ways. During warm weather, the body attempts to keep its internal temperature normal through sweating. However, if the body is incapable of self-regulation, it may lead to heat exhaustion or even heat stroke.
How Extreme Heat Impacts Physical Health
According to Dr. Eleni Horratas, an emergency medicine physician from Cleveland Clinic Akron General, the human body has a certain temperature range for organs to properly function. Dr. Horratas explains that being exposed to temperatures beyond this range prompts the body to adapt in order to keep itself within this normal range.
As the body gets warmer, blood starts to spread to the skin surface, leading to sweating. As sweat evaporates, it aids with body temperature regulation. However, if temperature levels are extremely high, if fluids are not enough, or if humidity is so high that the sweat does not effectively evaporate, overheating may result.
Dr. Horratas explains that extreme heat could lead the body to have a heightened response to maintain normal temperature levels and increase pathway demands. The body has adaptability limits. Hence, significantly high temperatures can overwhelm the intrinsic system of the body and lead to failure in maintaining a balanced environment. This could ultimately lead to organ failure, with the kidneys, brain, and heart being affected often.
When the body is incapable of keeping temperature levels normal, heat exhaustion or a heat stroke may result. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include nausea, vomiting, heavy sweating, a weak or fast pulse, fainting, muscle cramps, headaches, dizziness, and tiredness.
As for heat stroke, this is a medical emergency that should receive immediate attention. Heat stroke symptoms include confusion, a high body temperature of at least 103 degrees Fahrenheit, red, hot, dry, or damp skin, headaches, strong or fast pulses, passing out, nausea, and dizziness.
How Extreme Heat Affects Mental Health
Aside from affecting physical health, extreme heat can also impact mental health. For one, heat affects serotonin levels, which is the main neurotransmitter for mood regulation. Hence, heat may increase stress and fatigue levels and also dampen happiness and joy levels.
Psychologist Jennifer Bahrman, PhD, from the UTHealth Houston explains that as temperatures go up, the typical mental health side effects may include sleep pattern changes and listlessness. It may also heighten anger, irritability, depression, stress, and anxiety.
Bahrman also notes that heat can affect cognitive functioning. It can specifically impair concentration, working memory, attention, and reaction times. Deficits in such functions could result in changes in the ability of an individual to care for themselves, focus, problem-solve, come up with plans, and make good judgment. Bahrman also adds that those with dementia are particularly at risk when it comes to this.
On top of this, a person's preference for cold or hot weather can also impact their mental wellbeing when a heat wave hits. Licensed psychotherapist Mayra Mendez, PhD, LMFT, shares that the effect of weather conditions on mood is likely linked to personal preferences and personality compared to the actual temperature levels.
Protection Against Heat
When it comes to protecting oneself against heat, Dr. Horratas advises avoiding going outdoors when the sun is high. The doctor also recommends taking plenty of electrolyte fluids or water to replace the volume that got lost due to sweat.
If going outside is necessary, Dr. Horratas recommends taking frequent breaks and limiting the intake of caffeine or other supplements that could increase dehydration risks. Staying in an air-conditioned area is also recommended.
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