The feeling of cool beach waters, the taste of cherry popsicles and scent of coconut all give a relaxing vibe called summertime. All these things are wonderful to experience during the summertime, but for many people the best thing about summer is the warm weather. However, that warm weather can turn into an extreme level of heat. Extreme heat is typically around 90 degrees fahrenheit, 32 degrees celsius, and above.
Weather this extreme can cause anxiety, fatigue and irritability that decreases cognitive function and causes dehydration. A decrease in cognitive function can cause a disturbance in sleep and an imbalance in the neurotransmitter dopamine.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, but is also a chemical messenger that releases hormones to the mind. These hormones can bring happiness to a person’s mood which leads to other strategies to help a person through extreme heat. Eating something sweet releases dopamine into the mind, so even during the heat, a person can maintain a positive attitude.
However, if the heat is too extreme, it can override the dopamine in one’s body and make a person more aggressive or cause them to become isolated. This is why some people no longer have a desire to talk once they walk outside or why others have a tendency to become angry. It is because the heat has disturbed their hormones.
Effects of this disturbance are heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat exhaustion is similar to dehydration. Heat exhaustion is the lack of water and salt in the body. Symptoms of this include heavy sweating, paleness, headaches and nausea. A result of these symptoms is passing or blacking out.
To avoid dehydration and passing out, drink plenty of water and find air-conditioned buildings to remain in until the heat has settled down. These methods not only work for rehydration, but can increase cognitive function
The sun can be fun and welcoming, but in the moments it gets a little too toasty outside, it is important to be mindful of how the body is being treated during these extreme weathers. If it is not being treated with plenty of care, the body and mind can be harmed in many ways.