How Hot Weather Affects The Body

Hot summer weather can affect everyone, but some people are at higher risk of serious health problems. Heat can make the body work harder to cool itself, especially when temperatures stay high for many hours or days. When the body cannot cool down enough, it may cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke. These conditions can lead to symptoms like heavy sweating or, in more severe cases, not sweating, dizziness, weakness, confusion, and a high body temperature. Dehydration is also common because the body loses more water and salts through sweat. People most at risk include older adults, babies and young children, those with heart or lung problems, and anyone who works or exercises outside. Staying in cooler places, drinking water, and taking breaks from the heat can help reduce danger.