As temperatures and humidity soar outside, the human body faces a life-or-death battle that can be decided by just a few degrees. Research has shown that the critical danger point for illness and death from heat is lower than previously thought. With heat waves affecting regions like the United States, Mexico, India, and the Middle East, experts have explained what happens to the human body in extreme heat.
The body’s resting core temperature is around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, just 7 degrees away from heatstroke, which can be fatal. During heat waves, individuals with a fever of 102 or higher may be at risk of heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Core temperatures over 104 or 105 degrees can put patients at high risk of death, especially those with underlying health conditions.
Heat kills in three main ways: through heatstroke, strain on the heart, and dehydration. Heatstroke can cause organ failure due to critical increases in body temperature. The strain on the heart is significant, especially for those with cardiovascular disease, as blood rushes to the skin for cooling. Dehydration can lead to shock, organ failure, and eventually death, particularly if left untreated. Attention must be paid to the impact of heat on the brain, as confusion and cognitive dysfunction can be early signs of heat-related illness.
Humidity plays a crucial role in determining the body’s response to heat. Wet bulb globe temperature takes into account humidity, solar radiation, and wind to assess the body’s ability to regulate temperature. Young and old individuals have different thresholds for heat tolerance, with older people being more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Humid heat waves are more deadly than dry heat waves, as humidity affects the body’s ability to sweat and cool down.
In cases of heatstroke, immediate cooling measures are essential. Medical workers aim to cool down a victim within 30 minutes using techniques like cold water immersion, intravenous fluids, misters, ice packs, and chilling mats. However, heat-related illnesses can be insidious and challenging to detect, earning the nickname “silent killer.” With the ongoing climate crisis exacerbating heat waves worldwide, understanding the effects of extreme heat on the human body is crucial for public health and emergency preparedness.
Overall, the human body faces significant risks in extreme heat, with heatstroke, heart strain, and dehydration presenting life-threatening challenges. As heat waves become more frequent and intense due to climate change, awareness of heat-related illnesses and effective cooling strategies are essential to prevent fatalities. Public health measures and emergency response protocols must be in place to protect vulnerable populations from the dangers of extreme heat.
