Recent studies have shown that temperatures are rising at an alarming rate. As the climate changes, the Earth continues to heat up. Extreme heat brings about a whole slew of dangerous situations and circumstances.
A recent 20-year study on extreme temperatures showed that more than 500 million people have died due to both severe heat and cold conditions.
As extreme heat takes over the world, it may be prudent to learn about its various effects on the human body. Understanding the warning signs is essential in preventing potential adverse effects and fatalities.
What is Extreme Heat?
Defining Intense Heat
There are many ways to describe this type of heat. Generally, it occurs when a period of high temperatures surpasses the average temperature range for a particular area.
The National Weather Service (NWS) categorises it as a long-duration event, usually lasting two or more days. Temperatures during this period can be 10-15 degrees Fahrenheit hotter than the hottest temperatures typically experienced in an area.
For example, if the hottest temperature ever recorded in Boston, Massachusetts, was 103 degrees Fahrenheit, then intense heat would be defined as any period with a temperature of 113 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
What Are the Negative Effects of Extreme Heat?
Extreme heat can have several different effects on the human body. It is essential to be aware of these so that you can take the necessary precautions to avoid them.
Dehydration
Dehydration occurs when the body lacks enough water. It can happen when you sweat excessively or don’t drink enough fluids.
If you don’t replace the lost fluids, you can develop more severe problems, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke.
Symptoms of dehydration include thirst, dry mouth, dark urine, and fatigue. If you experience these symptoms, drinking plenty of fluids and seeking shade or air conditioning is essential.
Heat Cramps
Following the previous effect, heat cramps are muscle pains or spasms that can occur due to dehydration. They are usually experienced in the legs and abdomen.
Heat cramps often indicate dehydration, and you must replace lost fluids. The best way to treat heat cramps is to drink clear liquids like water or sports drinks and rest in a cool place.
These first two adverse effects show the domino-like burn consequences that intense heat can have on people.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is a more severe condition when one’s body temperature gets too high. It can happen when one is dehydrated or has been exposed to intense heat for an extended period.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, extreme thirst, headaches, nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness, and a rapid pulse. If you experience these symptoms, seeking medical attention immediately is essential.
If left unchecked, heat exhaustion can worsen to heatstroke, the most severe—and in some cases fatal—effect of intense heat.
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is the most severe condition caused by high heat. It occurs when the body temperature rises so high that it damages the brain and other organs.
Symptoms of heat stroke include a body temperature above 103 degrees Fahrenheit, hot red skin that is dry or sweaty, rapid breathing, irregular heartbeat, confusion, and fainting.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Heat stroke is a medical emergency and can be fatal if not treated with the proper first aid practices.
Preterm Births
Exposure to intense heat has also been linked to an increased risk of preterm births. A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives journal found that women exposed to this heat level during pregnancy were more likely to give birth prematurely.
The study found that the risk was highest during the first trimester of pregnancy and remained elevated.
If pregnant and exposed to very high temperatures, staying hydrated and seeking air conditioning or shade is essential. You should also avoid strenuous activity and wear loose, cool clothing.
Migraines
Migraine sufferers may find that their symptoms are worsened by intense heat. A study published in the journal Neurology found that migraines were more likely to occur on days when the temperature was above 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
The study also found that the risk of migraines increased as the temperature increased. If you are a migraine sufferer, it’s essential to stay calm and hydrated during very hot periods. You should also avoid strenuous activity and direct sunlight.
Decreased Kidney Functions
Exposure to intense heat can also lead to decreased kidney function. A study published in the journal Kidney International found that exposure to heat can reduce kidney function and increase the risk of kidney injury.
The study found that the risk was highest among people who were already dehydrated or had other medical conditions.
Cool, Calm, but Cautious
Unbearable heat levels can have several effects on the human body, some more serious than others. It’s essential to be aware of the impact of intense heat so that you can take the necessary precautions to avoid them.
Stay hydrated and drink lots of fluids. Seek comfort in the shade and turn on the air conditioning when possible. Most importantly, monitor your body for any signs of distress.
Finally, learning first aid can add an extra layer of protection. This will allow you to respond correctly to any negative signs that intense heat may bring.
Learn first aid with CPR First Aid’s Liverpool courses today. From first aid training, a CPR refresher course, advance first aid courses and more, CPRFA offers various courses that will no doubt benefit you.