Some might like it hot, but extreme heat can overpower the human body. An expert from the CDC explains how heat kills and why fans are worthless in the face of truly high temperatures
Climate
change promises to bring with it longer, hotter summers to many
places on the planet. This June turned out to be the fourth-hottest
month ever recorded—globally—scientists
are reporting. With more heat waves on the horizon, and a big one
currently sweeping much of the U.S., the risk of heat-related health
problems has also been on the rise.
Heat exhaustion is a relatively common reaction to severe heat and can
include symptoms such as dizziness, headache and fainting. It can
usually be treated with rest, a cool environment and hydration
(including refueling of electrolytes, which are necessary for muscle and
other body functions). Heat stroke is more severe and requires medical
attention—it is often accompanied by dry skin, a body temperature above
103 degrees Fahrenheit, confusion and sometimes unconsciousness.
To read the full, original article click on this link: How Does a Heat Wave Affect the Human Body?: Scientific American
Author: Katherine Harmon
