Our bodies have several ways to maintain a stable internal temperature. It’s a process known as thermoregulation. With the cold weather approaching, our bodies strive to maintain a temperature of 98.6 degrees. To stay safe and healthy all year, we must be aware of environmental changes and how they affect our bodies. Here are some ways the body deals with temperature changes.
- Sweating: Sweat glands release moisture onto the skin’s surface when we get overheated. When that moisture evaporates, it takes away heat and cools the body.
- Blood vessels: Near the skin surface, blood vessels can expand or constrict to regulate blood flow and heat exchange. This can allow more blood flow near the skin, allowing heat to dissipate or reduce blood flow to conserve heat in colder temperatures.
- Shivering: Our muscles contract and relax rapidly to generate heat when we get cold. This helps raise the body’s temperature. Brrrrr!!!
- Acclimatization: With prolonged exposure to certain temperatures, the body can adapt and become more efficient at dealing with those conditions. This is known as acclimatization and can involve changes in sweat rate and increased blood volume.
- Adaptation of Metabolic Rate: Metabolism plays a significant role in regulating body temperature. The body can adjust its metabolic rate to generate more or less heat in extreme temperatures.
We can also adapt to temperature changes by seeking or avoiding exposure to heat and cold by wearing appropriate clothing, seeking shade, or moving to warmer and cooler places to help regulate body temperature. However, in extreme conditions or certain medical conditions, the body’s ability to regulate temperature can be overwhelmed, leading to conditions like heatstroke or hypothermia. It’s important to be aware of environmental conditions and take the appropriate measures to stay safe, healthy, and comfortable.
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Medical Disclaimer:
*The information given in this blog is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.