Health Risks Associated with Extreme Heat: Understanding the Impact on Vital Organs
Severe Heatwaves Affecting Many Regions
Most regions in the country, including the Delhi-NCR area, are currently facing intense heat and heatwaves. On Friday, temperatures in Delhi-NCR soared above 45 degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that no respite is anticipated in the coming days, with maximum temperatures expected to remain between 43 and 45 degrees.
Health Warnings from Experts
Health professionals are raising alarms about the rising temperatures. They emphasize that extreme heat not only causes discomfort but can also adversely affect various bodily organs.
Experts explain that when the body's internal temperature exceeds the normal range of around 37 degrees Celsius, it must exert more effort to cool down. This added strain can increase heart rate, lead to rapid loss of water and electrolytes, and negatively impact essential organs like the liver and kidneys.
The Effects of Extreme Heat on the Body
As temperatures surpass 45 degrees, it raises the question of how this extreme heat affects different organs.
**Health Risks of High Temperatures**
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that rising temperatures significantly impact vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, pregnant women, outdoor workers, and those with chronic health conditions.
When temperatures exceed 45 degrees, blood circulation patterns change, with more blood directed to the skin to help release heat. This shift puts additional pressure on vital organs such as the heart, kidneys, and brain.
Moreover, prolonged dehydration can thicken the blood, complicating blood pressure regulation and oxygen delivery.
Impact on the Heart
The heart is particularly affected by extreme heat. When temperatures rise above 45 degrees, the body increases blood flow to the skin to cool down, forcing the heart to work harder.
The American Heart Association notes that heart rates can rise during extreme heat or prolonged sun exposure, increasing the risk of severe health issues like heart attacks and strokes.
Additionally, dehydration leads to a decrease in essential electrolytes such as sodium and potassium, which are crucial for heart function.
Effects on the Liver
Excessive heat also impacts liver health. Research shows that extreme heat exposure and heatstroke can elevate liver enzyme levels, increasing the risk of liver complications.
Dehydration can impair blood circulation, disrupting the oxygen and nutrient supply to the liver.
Extended exposure to high temperatures may lead to liver swelling, inflammation, and cellular damage.
Impact on the Kidneys
According to Senior Nephrologist Dr. Vikram Malha, prolonged heat exposure results in excessive sweating, leading to significant fluid and electrolyte loss. This dehydration can reduce blood flow to vital organs, including the kidneys.
The National Kidney Foundation warns that individuals working in hot conditions are at a heightened risk of kidney disease.
As the body loses water, urine becomes more concentrated, increasing the likelihood of mineral and sodium crystal formation, which raises the risk of kidney stones.