ZDF explains in an article when heat becomes dangerous for the human body. According to the report, the body’s core temperature can rise above 40 degrees Celsius if the body can no longer cool itself. This is life-threatening.
The cause of overheating is a heat buildup in the brain, triggered by direct sunlight on the head. The tissue heats up locally, and the meninges become irritated. At the same time, the body’s cooling system works: the body dehydrates, blood pressure drops, and pulse increases. With heavy sweating and insufficient drinking, the body lacks electrolytes such as potassium and sodium.
Particularly at risk are young children, whose temperature regulation is not yet fully developed, as well as people with neurological conditions. For example, young multiple sclerosis patients experience more frequent relapses, and dementia patients appear confused. People without hair or babies also need head protection in direct sunlight. In tropical nights without cooling, heat puts particular strain on the heart and blood vessels.
The article also points out the positive effects of the sun: it promotes well-being and vitamin D production. According to ZDF, two to three short sunbaths per week of the face, hands, and arms are sufficient – about half the time that would lead to sunburn. For fair, sensitive skin (skin type II), that is about twelve minutes. Sunbathing is not suitable for compensating for a vitamin D deficiency due to the risk of skin cancer, a deficiency that is common in Germany.
Source: zdfheute-stories-scroll.zdf.de
