How Do Extreme Temperatures Affect The Human Body?

The thermoregulatory capacity of the human body allows it to face adverse climatic environments. However, constant exposure can have big consequences.

Exposure to extreme temperatures can have serious health consequences  and even lead to the death of a person. These climatic conditions generally appear in countries with a temperate climate, especially during the winter and summer months.

The ideal body temperature is around 37 ° C. Above 41, we speak of hyperthermia  and, below 35, hypothermia . Extreme temperatures can quickly trigger both of these states.

Would you like to know more about this topic? We have prepared this article for you to resolve the main doubts on this topic. So, don’t hesitate to read on!

How can the body tolerate changes in temperature?

The human being has many biological mechanisms of thermoregulation. These are complemented by our conscious ability to create objects and clothing intended to prevent heat loss or gain, as appropriate.

Thanks to the activity of many organs and systems (such as the cardiovascular and neurological), the body has the capacity to face adverse climatic situations.

For example, in hot climates, there is heat evaporative loss, during which the blood vessels on the surface of the body dilate to lose fluid in the form of sweat. The opposite happens when it is very cold because the distribution of blood flow is to vital organs.

How does the body react in extreme heat?

Extreme heat is an adverse climatic condition during which temperatures are reached which, if maintained in a sustained manner, can lead to severe health consequences. This temperature varies according to each region. The coping mechanisms depend on the environment in which a person operates.

When this temperature remains around 10 degrees above the upper average limit for a given area, we speak of  extreme heat. Obviously, these conditions must be stable for several weeks.

Symptoms and reactions

Some of the most important clinical manifestations during a heat wave are:

• Muscle pain, abdominal pain and headache.
• Profuse sweating.
• Fatigue and fainting.
• Nausea.
• Increased heart rate.

Many of these symptoms are the natural consequence of dehydration. If you do present them, it is recommended that you get to the emergency room as soon as possible.

How can we regulate and prevent it?

In the event of a possible heat wave, several recommendations should be followed to avoid any type of damage to health. The most basic are to equip the house with air conditioning and fans,  which may require an early economic investment.

It is also recommended to buy or manufacture deflectors if we have a lot of windows in our home. Some can be created using cardboard with aluminum.

Drinking lots of water and wearing loose clothing are basic aspects  that we must respect both outdoors and at home. If we have to go out, we must go near public places where there is air conditioning or immediate medical assistance in case we have any of the symptoms mentioned.

Groups at risk

The elderly, like young children, are more prone to the medical complications  that derive from extreme temperatures. Patients with chronic diseases, especially those that affect the cardiovascular and renal systems, need to take extra care.

How does the body react in extreme cold?

The definition of extreme cold is the opposite of that of extreme heat. It usually occurs in regions with temperate climates and against the background of winter storms.

Symptoms and reactions

The main clinical manifestations of dangerous exposure to extreme cold are as follows:

• Chills and muscle cramps.
• Tingling.
• Decreased state of consciousness.
• Color change in the hands and feet.

All of these symptoms, and more particularly the last two, imply  the need to be examined in the nearest emergency department.

How can we regulate and prevent it?

As happens with heat waves, in the majority of cases, its negative health effects can be prevented. The recommendations are as follows:

• Leave home as little as possible .
• Have the necessary tools to remove snow from the surrounding area.
• Wear several layers of clothing,  protecting your hands, feet, ears, neck and head.
• Provide a good heating system in advance.
• Make an emergency plan to get to a hospital  when needed.
• Have enough canned food in case the power goes out.

Groups at risk

Extreme ages and patients with chronic illnesses are more exposed  to the effects of a cold snap. People with reduced mobility should avoid leaving their homes because of the possible obstacles caused by snowfall.

Always pay attention to extreme temperatures

Each year, exposure to these extreme temperatures costs thousands of lives, more than natural disasters. The majority of developed countries with temperate climates have government strategies aimed at reducing deaths from this problem. In the event of the slightest doubt, it is recommended to consult a trusted doctor.