The World Health Organization is sounding the alarm: from 2000 to 2016, the number of people suffering from heat-related illnesses increased by 125 million. And this figure is increasing every year. Experts say the reason for this increase is climate change.
The human body maintains a constant temperature thanks to biochemical processes. At rest, it produces as much heat as is needed to operate a 100-watt light bulb. When the ambient temperature is close to body temperature, energy expenditure is minimal. In the heat, the body activates cooling mechanisms: sweating begins, the heart rate increases, and blood circulation in the skin increases.
However, excessive sweating disrupts the water-salt balance. This can cause headaches, cramps, nausea, and fatigue. The situation is further complicated by high humidity - sweat does not evaporate, and therefore the body does not cool down, which causes a feeling of suffocation.
On hot days, people are more likely to complain of decreased concentration, irritability, and general weakness. It is difficult not only to work physically, but also to perform mental tasks. The most vulnerable are the elderly, people with overweight, cardiovascular diseases, or respiratory disorders.
Also, according to the US National Security Institute, women tolerate heat worse due to less sweating. However, this difference is leveled out with age due to heart problems in men.
Boston University professor Gregory Wellenius points out that heat can cause exacerbations of diseases that are not usually associated with temperature - including kidney problems, skin infections and even premature birth.
In addition, scientists from the United States have recorded a connection between heat and deterioration of mental health. On hot days, the risk of exacerbation of anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, dementia increases. There is also evidence that high temperatures reduce test results, increase the risk of production errors and impair cognitive functions.
