Gaby
The relentless heat of Cerberus, named after the mythical monster that guards the gates of hell, shows no signs of letting up this summer. Researchers say climate change will bring increasingly intense heat waves, and experts are studying how prolonged high temperatures affect the human body and what steps people can take to survive them.
How Does Extreme Heat Affect the Human Body?
According to the Global Risks Report 2023, heatwaves—a prolonged period of unusually hot weather—raise the risk of health deterioration and spikes in mortality. They can cause a range of problems, including dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
During dehydration, the body loses more fluid than it takes in, which makes the blood thicker and stickier. Dehydration also lowers blood pressure, which complicates blood flow throughout the body and can increase the risk of blood clots and strokes.
Muscle cramps become more common with dehydration because electrolytes and minerals vital for muscle function are lost through sweat. Dehydration can also reduce brain volume, leading to lower energy levels and making everyday tasks more difficult.
Studies have found that accidents and injuries, including car crashes, increase during hot periods because heat impairs cognitive function and raises the chance of mistakes.
Inhaling dry, hot, and polluted air can affect the respiratory system by causing airway constriction, which makes breathing harder. This is especially dangerous for people with asthma or COPD.
Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke
There is a clear risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke when people don’t replace fluids lost through sweating. Heat exhaustion usually has minimal long-term effects if the person cools down within 30 minutes. In those cases, cool the person down and give fluids. Fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and nausea are common signs of heat exhaustion.
Heat stroke is far more serious and should be treated as an emergency. It occurs when a person’s body temperature reaches 104°F (40°C) or higher. Symptoms can include seizures or loss of consciousness.
In hot weather, hands, feet, and ankles may swell. Heat causes blood vessels to expand, which can allow fluid to leak into surrounding tissues and cause heat edema.
Along with sunburn, skin rashes can appear in the heat. These rashes are usually harmless and clear up on their own in a few days, though small raised patches can itch and swell.
Who is at Risk from the Heat?
A heatwave can be dangerous for anyone who doesn’t stay in a cool place and remain hydrated, but older adults—especially people over 75—and people with chronic illnesses are at highest risk.
Infants, young children, bedridden people, and those with Alzheimer’s disease are also particularly vulnerable. Overheating can worsen heart problems and, in severe cases, be fatal. People who spend long periods outdoors or live on the top floor of a building are more likely to experience heat-related health complications.
As reported by the Daily Mail, last year 62,000 Europeans died from heat, the majority of whom were over 80. Researchers warn that, without effective heat-prevention plans, heat-related deaths in Europe could rise to 94,000 by 2040.
How Much Heat Can a Person Endure Without Dying?
Research shows that temperatures above 95°F (35°C) are dangerously high for the human body. Some studies estimate an upper limit of roughly 115°F (46°C) for six hours at 50% humidity, or 95°F (35°C) at 100% humidity; beyond those points the body can no longer cool itself by sweating.
Other studies suggest the limits may be lower. American researchers concluded last year that the maximum temperature at which people can function is about 88°F (31°C) at 100% humidity or 100°F (38°C) at 60% humidity.
Tips for Staying Safe During the Heat
- Keep indoor spaces cool by closing curtains in sunlit rooms.
- Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excessive alcohol.
- Never leave anyone (especially infants, young children, and pets) in a closed vehicle.
- Stay out of the sun from 11 AM to 3 PM when the heat is most intense.
- Seek shade, use sunscreen with a high SPF and UVA protection, and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
- Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.
- Carry water with you when traveling.
- If possible, paint your building’s roof white to reflect heat.
How to Help Someone with Heat Exhaustion?
If someone has heat exhaustion, cool them within 30 minutes. Move the person to a cool place and remove any unnecessary clothing. Give them a rehydration drink or cool water.
Cool the person’s skin by spraying or wiping them with cool water. Place cold compresses wrapped in cloth under the armpits or on the neck.
Stay with the affected person until they feel better. They should start to cool down within 30 minutes. If symptoms are severe or don’t improve, call emergency services.
