Humidity plays a crucial role in how our bodies regulate temperature. High humidity levels can impede the body’s ability to regulate temperature effectively, primarily through sweating. Sweat evaporates from the skin’s surface, carrying heat away from the body and cooling it down.
However, in humid conditions, the air is already saturated with moisture, making it harder for sweat to evaporate. As a result, the cooling effect of sweating is diminished, and the body may struggle to dissipate heat efficiently.
In a hot and humid environment, such as one where the temperature is 35 degrees Celsius, the combination of high temperature and humidity can make it challenging for the body to dissipate heat effectively.
The combined effect of temperature and humidity on the human body is often expressed as the heat index or “apparent temperature.”
This index takes into account both air temperature and relative humidity to provide an estimate of how hot it feels to the human body.
For example, a temperature of 35 degrees Celsius with high humidity can result in a significantly higher heat index, making it feel much hotter than the actual temperature. Potentially leading to heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
The impact of heat and humidity on individuals with chronic illnesses can be more significant and potentially pose greater risks to their health.
Here’s how:
Cardiovascular Conditions
People with cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, heart failure, or coronary artery disease may be more vulnerable to heat-related complications.
High temperatures can increase the workload on the heart as it tries to regulate body temperature, leading to elevated blood pressure and heart rate.
In humid conditions, the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating is compromised, putting additional strain on the cardiovascular system.
Respiratory Conditions
Individuals with respiratory illnesses like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or allergies may experience exacerbated symptoms in hot and humid environments.
High humidity levels can worsen respiratory distress by making it harder to breathe, especially for those with compromised lung function.
Additionally, air pollution tends to worsen in hot weather, further aggravating respiratory symptoms.
Medication Interactions
Certain medications commonly used to manage chronic illnesses, such as diuretics, beta-blockers, and anticholinergics, can affect the body’s response to heat and humidity.
For example, diuretics can increase the risk of dehydration, while beta-blockers may impair the body’s ability to respond to changes in temperature. It’s essential for individuals taking such medications to be aware of these effects and take precautions accordingly.
Increased Risk of Heat-Related Illnesses:
Due to their underlying health conditions and potential medication interactions, individuals with chronic illnesses may be at a higher risk of developing heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke in hot and humid conditions.
These conditions can be life-threatening if not promptly recognized and treated.
Preventive Measures
People with chronic illnesses should take extra precautions to protect themselves during periods of high heat and humidity.
This includes staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to heat, seeking cooler environments, wearing lightweight and breathable clothing, and being mindful of medication interactions.
It’s also essential to have a plan in place for managing symptoms and seeking medical attention if needed.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10231239/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK236240/
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About Dr Adrian Mondry
Dr Adrian Mondry is a Hypertension Specialist accredited by the German Hypertension League in Singapore. He was previously a senior consultant in the department of medicine at the National University Hospital and Ng Teng Fong General Hospital (NTFGH), Dr Mondry has more than 30 years of experience in the field of internal medicine.
Dr Adrian Mondry is recognised for his leadership and contributions in establishing the dedicated hypertension clinic within the National University Health System and fast-track deep vein thrombosis service at NTFGH.
Dr Adrian Mondry is fluent in English, German and French.
About Kaizen Medical
Kaizen Medical is located at Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, Suite 11-57.
At Kaizen, we provide in depth health care to patients with multi-organs diseases; tackling undifferentiated presentations that cannot be easily assigned to a single organ.
