In July 2023, the world experienced the hottest month on record, possibly making it the hottest month in human history. This scorching heat is just one example of the many broken heat records we’ve witnessed recently. The United States Southwest is still grappling with a record-breaking heat wave, while Siberia faced temperatures as high as 38°C in 2020, marking the highest temperature ever recorded in the Arctic Circle. Nine out of the ten hottest years on record have occurred in the last decade. This extreme heat has had devastating consequences for human health, leading to tragic events like the European heat wave of 2003, which claimed the lives of approximately 70,000 people. In 2022, another heat wave in Europe caused approximately 62,000 deaths. Countless others have suffered from heat-related illnesses or injuries.
Research has shown that the human body can adapt to heat to a certain extent. However, when the core body temperature cannot be cooled down, our cells and organs start to be affected. Heat waves put immense strain on our bodies and can result in permanent injury or even death. A 2021 review published in the Lancet by Kristie Ebi and her colleagues highlights how sustained heat waves can have cascading effects on our health. Additionally, heat waves are becoming more humid, which limits our ability to cool down, and nights are growing hotter, depriving us of crucial rest and recovery time. These trends undermine our capacity to adapt to rising temperatures. While individuals and communities have ways to protect themselves from extreme heat, researchers predict that heat risks will only increase as temperatures continue to rise.
So, what exactly does extreme heat and high humidity do to our bodies, and how can we safeguard ourselves? The body has two primary methods of cooling down: sweating and redirecting blood to the skin surface. Sweating helps cool us down as the evaporation of sweat absorbs heat. At the same time, dilated blood vessels under the skin allow the blood to disperse heat to the surrounding air. These mechanisms work together to maintain a safe internal body temperature of around 37°C. However, climate change is not only increasing temperatures but also making them harder for our bodies to tolerate. Heat waves driven by climate change are not only hotter and longer but also more humid. Humidity poses a barrier to our natural cooling process, as sweat does not evaporate as effectively in humid environments. Consequently, sweat sticks to the skin rather than cooling us off, and the heart has to work harder to compensate by diverting blood away from the core. Furthermore, nights are no longer providing much relief as they used to, as global nighttime temperatures are rising faster than daytime temperatures. Hotter nights also disrupt our sleep patterns, negatively impacting our overall well-being.
The combined forces of heat, humidity, and hot nights place a significant burden on our body’s cooling systems. Prolonged exposure to these conditions can have severe consequences. Blood being pushed towards the skin results in increased strain on the heart, leading to oxygen shortages and heart failure. This explains why cardiovascular failure accounts for roughly half of the deaths during heat waves, particularly among older individuals. Other organs, such as the lungs, may also fail under the stress of extreme heat. People with preexisting conditions such as diabetes or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are particularly vulnerable. If the body cannot maintain a stable temperature, the core temperature starts to rise dangerously. Heat exhaustion can occur when the internal temperature reaches around 38°C, causing symptoms such as faintness, headache, dizziness, and heavy sweating. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, where body temperature surpasses 40°C. Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that can damage cells, interfere with organ function, and lead to organ failure, permanent injury, or death. Even sweating carries its risks. Insufficient water intake while sweating can result in dehydration, which thickens the blood, further straining the heart and affecting kidney function. Chronic dehydration, as seen in outdoor workers, can even lead to kidney disease. Heat-related injuries, even non-fatal ones, have been linked to an increased risk of subsequent heat-related injury or death for several years.
While the symptoms and outcomes of heat-related illnesses may sound alarming, it’s important to note that these mechanisms unfold over a period of hours, not instantaneously. People typically experience symptoms well before they reach a critical stage. Mortality rates typically peak around 24 hours after a heat wave begins, allowing for potential interventions and preventive measures.
The good news is that almost every heat-related death is preventable. A combination of personal and societal actions is necessary to protect the most vulnerable individuals. Staying well-hydrated is crucial during periods of high heat. If possible, air conditioning should be used, and cooling centers or public places with air conditioning can be sought out. It’s advisable to stay indoors and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day. Placing a cool towel on the neck, using fans in humid conditions, or soaking hands and feet in cold water can also help regulate body temperature. These recommendations are especially relevant for those at higher risk, such as adults over 65, newborns, pregnant individuals, people on certain medications, and those with heart and lung conditions. Some populations may face increased risks due to geographical location or occupation. Individuals who are homeless or work outdoors may not have the option to seek shelter during extreme heat. Poor urban neighborhoods, particularly those with limited tree cover and many dark surfaces, tend to be hotter, posing risks to residents even at night. Regions with warmer and more humid climates, like Southeast Asia, also face heightened risks.
To mitigate these risks, local governments can implement early warning systems to notify residents about impending heat waves. They can also enforce regulations that encourage the use of naturally cooling building materials for roofs, such as white or reflective surfaces. Creating more green spaces, planting trees, and improving overall urban design can also help mitigate the effects of extreme heat.
In conclusion, as temperatures continue to rise, it is essential that we prioritize both individual and collective efforts to protect ourselves from the dangers of extreme heat. By understanding how heat affects our bodies and adopting appropriate preventive measures, we can reduce the incidence of heat-related illnesses and deaths.
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Jessica Irvine is a tech enthusiast specializing in gadgets. From smart home devices to cutting-edge electronics, Jessica explores the world of consumer tech, offering readers comprehensive reviews, hands-on experiences, and expert insights into the coolest and most innovative gadgets on the market.
