From this temperature, the body begins to overheat - it is lower than we thought
The world is warming at an alarming rate. Experts predict that temperatures exceeding human limits will become increasingly common around the world. "Recent projections suggest that large geographic areas will soon experience heat and humidity exceeding the limits of human thermoregulation," note Canadian researchers. They have discovered that this limit may have been overestimated.
In a press release, they state that "the limits of human thermoregulation—our ability to maintain a stable body temperature in extreme heat—are lower than previously thought." To find out, the study authors exposed 12 people to varying heat and humidity conditions to identify the point at which the body can no longer regulate its own temperature.
The researchers discovered that "humans cannot thermoregulate effectively" from 26 to 31°C in air saturated with humidity. This is much lower than the "theoretical threshold of 35°C" that had been established. The more humid the air, the less perspiration can evaporate. Except that it is precisely thanks to perspiration that the human body manages to regulate its internal temperature to maintain it at 37°C! Beyond this, the body is in hyperthermia, which can have serious health consequences, even fatal.
Of course, this theoretical limit is a generality. Some fragile people, especially the elderly, will not tolerate a higher temperature than younger, healthy people. In case of extreme heat, it is essential to stay sufficiently hydrated, avoid the sun and intense physical activity; and consult a health professional in case of symptoms indicating heatstroke: malaise, dizziness, headache, fever, intense thirst, nausea or vomiting, rapid pulse and breathing, etc.
L'Internaute
