Heat intolerance: What's it, causes, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment, prevention

Heat intolerance; Sensitivity to heat; Intolerance to heat

Heat intolerance – This State, in which the body cannot regulate its temperature in hot weather or during physical activity. This is a common problem, which affects people of all ages and can be caused by various factors.

Heat intolerance is the feeling of overheating when the temperature rises around you.. This can often cause profuse sweating.. Heat intolerance usually develops gradually and lasts for a long time., but can occur quickly and be the result of a serious illness.

What is heat intolerance?

Heat intolerance – This State, in which the body cannot regulate its temperature in hot weather or during physical activity. It can lead to symptoms, such as excessive sweating, dizziness, nausea and fatigue. Heat intolerance can be caused by various factors., including dehydration, certain medications and underlying medical conditions.

Causes of heat intolerance

There are several factors, which may contribute to heat intolerance, including:

  • Dehydration: when the body is dehydrated, it cannot effectively regulate its temperature, which can lead to heat intolerance.
  • Medicines: some medicines, such as diuretics and antihistamines, can impair the body's ability to regulate its temperature.
  • Major Medical Conditions: heat intolerance can be a symptom of underlying medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease.
  • Pregnancy: pregnant women are more prone to heat intolerance due to hormonal changes and increased blood volume.
  • Age: older people are more susceptible to heat intolerance due to changes in the body's ability to regulate temperature.

Heat intolerance for medical reasons can cause:

  • Amphetamines or other stimulants, including those contained in preparations, appetite suppressants
  • Anxiety
  • Caffeine
  • Menopause
  • Excess production of thyroid hormones (thyrotoxicosis)

Heat intolerance symptoms

Symptoms of heat intolerance can vary depending on the severity of the condition.. Some common symptoms include:

  • Excessive sweating
  • Dizziness or lightness in the head
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Confusion or disorientation

When to See a Medical Specialist

If you have symptoms of heat intolerance, it is important to seek medical attention. Heat intolerance could be a sign of a more serious underlying medical condition, and timely treatment can help prevent complications.

Questions, which the doctor may ask

When you visit the doctor because of heat intolerance, he may ask you a series of questions, to help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. Some questions, which the doctor may ask, include:

  • When did you first notice your symptoms?
  • Do you have any underlying medical conditions?
  • Are you taking any medication?
  • Have you been exposed to high temperatures or been physically active recently?
  • Do you have other symptoms, such as fever or chills?

Heat Intolerance Diagnosis

To diagnose heat intolerance, your doctor will perform a physical examination and ask you about your symptoms and medical history.. He may also order blood tests or other diagnostic tests., to rule out underlying medical conditions.

Heat Intolerance Treatment

Treatment for heat intolerance depends on the underlying cause of the condition.. If dehydration is the cause, a doctor may recommend increasing fluid intake and avoiding alcohol and caffeine. If an underlying medical condition is causing your symptoms, the doctor may prescribe medications or recommend other treatments.

Treating heat intolerance at home

There are several things, which you can make at home, to help manage heat intolerance, including:

  • Drink enough liquid
  • Avoid alcohol and caffeine
  • Wear loose, light clothing
  • Avoid being outdoors during the hottest part of the day
  • Take frequent breaks, if you are physically active

Prevention of heat intolerance

To prevent heat intolerance, it is important to stay hydrated and avoid high temperatures. If you are physically active, remember to take frequent breaks and drink enough fluids. Wearing loose, Light clothing can also help regulate your body temperature..

Conclusion

Heat intolerance – this is a common condition, which can be caused by various factors. If you have symptoms of heat intolerance, it is important to seek medical attention, to determine the root cause of your condition. Timely treatment and proper management can help manage heat intolerance effectively and prevent future occurrences..

Used sources and literature

Hollenberg A, Wiersinga WM. Hyperthyroid disorders. In: Melmed S, Auchus RJ, Goldfine AB, Koenig RJ, Rosen CJ, eds. Williams Textbook of Endocrinology. 14th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 12.

Jonklaas J, Cooper DS. Thyroid. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 213.

Sawka MN, O’Connor FG. Disorders due to heat and cold. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 101.

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