The question is being asked more and more often why some people tolerate high temperatures better, while others look for relief in the cold at the very first heat. The differences are rooted not only in biological, but also in external factors.
Age, gender and body structure
Research confirms that age, gender, physical condition and individual body structure influence how the body copes with high temperatures. The distribution of fat and muscle mass determines the speed of heating and cooling of the body. Especially the elderly are exposed to a greater risk of negative consequences of the heat. With increasing age, the number of sweat glands decreases and the temperature regulation mechanisms become less efficient. Therefore, seniors often feel thirsty later and sweat less intensively, which increases the risk of overheating and dehydration.
In women, hormones also affect the perception of high temperatures – during menstruation, pregnancy or menopause. During these periods, the need for fluids increases and symptoms such as hot flashes may worsen.
People who regularly live in hot environments can adapt to high temperatures to some extent. The acclimatization process usually lasts five to seven days and consists in more effective sweating and better cooling of the body. This explains why the same temperatures are perceived differently by different people.
The importance of humidity and psyche
Not only the temperature, but also the air humidity affects our feelings during the heat. High humidity makes it difficult for sweat to evaporate, reducing cooling efficiency and increasing fatigue. Psychological factors such as stress, lack of sleep or current mood can increase sensitivity to heat. Research shows that prolonged heat increases irritability and psychological stress.
Some diseases, for example diabetes, cardiovascular problems or thyroid disorders, can disrupt the regulation of body temperature. Certain medications, such as medications for high blood pressure, antidepressants, or diuretics, can make it harder to remove heat from the body and worsen the symptoms of hot flashes.
When is heat dangerous?
High temperatures are the most dangerous for the elderly, infants, pregnant women and people with heart, lung or metabolic disorders. Overheating or heatstroke can seriously endanger health. During the heat, experts recommend taking care of sufficient fluid intake, limiting physical activity, avoiding direct sunlight and reacting in time to the first symptoms of overheating, such as dizziness or circulation problems.
This article comes from the Ringier publishing partner website. The content and data contained in it were taken without editorial intervention.
