With such high temperatures, our body certainly feels uncomfortable and responds to increased heat and humidity in various ways. Scroll down to find out more.
Various parts of India including Delhi-NCR have been experiencing persistent heat waves for the past few days. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 46.2 degrees Celsius in Najafgarh, making it the hottest place in the capital. With such high temperatures, our body certainly feels uncomfortable and responds to increased heat and humidity in various ways.
Normal body temperature ranges from 37-38 degrees, as the temperature rises, the brain tells the muscles to slow down, and fatigue sets in. Sweat glands release more sweat and blood flow increases rapidly, leading to more heat in the body. Here are some things that happen to the human body when the temperature rises 45 degrees or more.
Things That Happen To Your Body When Mercury Rises To 45 Degrees
1. Increased sweating
The most common and immediate reaction of the body to the increase in temperature is constant sweating. As the mercury rises, the body activates its built-in cooling system. Sweat glands in the body release precipitation, which evaporates on the skin, producing a cooling effect. Sweating helps the body control its temperature and prevents overheating.
Also read Cold hydrotherapy: 3 benefits of practicing this therapy for a healthy body
2. Rapid heartbeat
When the human body experiences scorching heat, the heart rate tends to increase. The human body takes high temperatures as a stressor and responds by increasing cardiac output, to effectively transport oxygen and nutrients to different parts of the body. People who have already been diagnosed with heart-related conditions should take extra precautions during heat waves.
3. Expansion of blood vessels
When exposed to higher than normal temperatures, the body’s blood vessels begin to expand in a process called vasodilation. Vasodilation is a process through which blood vessels widen in reaction to increased heat. This expansion of blood vessels leads to heat dissipation and regulates body temperature. Although, sometimes this expansion of the blood vessels can also lead to low blood pressure levels, causing dizziness or fainting.
Also ReadSkin Care Tips: 5 Rules You Must Follow To Wash Your Face The Right Way
4. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heat exhaustion is the body’s response to excessive loss of water and salt, usually through excessive sweating. Heat exhaustion is more likely to affect the elderly, people with high blood pressure, and those who work in a hot environment. Meanwhile, heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature: the body’s temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool itself. When heat stroke occurs, body temperature can rise to 106°F or higher in 10 to 15 minutes.
5. Skin changes
Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to various skin related problems such as sunburn and dry or sensitive skin. The heat wave can make the skin dry and cause inflammation and redness. The sun’s ultraviolet rays are intensified, increasing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Therefore, one should never forget to apply sunscreen to protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet rays.
(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.)
Categories: Lifestyle News
Source: vtt.edu.vn