Heat has a surprising effect on the brain. This is what doctors want you to know
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The summer heat has swept the United States, with warnings emitted on the east coast and the west medium.
In addition to stressing in the body, the warm climate can also affect brain and mental health.
Dr. Jace Reed, director of emergency psychiatry at Cedars-Sinai hospital in Los Angeles, emphasized in an interview with News Digital that the brain is an important organ that can be very affected by heat.
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Extreme heat can cause changes in mental health such as greater irritability and anxiety, along with a decrease in memory, attention and reaction time.
This can affect the socially and professionally daily interactions, the expert warned.
Extreme heat can cause changes in mental health such as greater irritability and anxiety, along with a decrease in memory, attention and reaction time. (Istock)
“It can be slower to complete your task or remember what someone just told him,” he told News Digital. “Those can be initial signs that heat is affecting their brain and mental skills.”
Symptoms such as extreme confusion could mark the beginning of a heat stroke, which may require hospitalization, warned the psychiatrist.
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In a separate interview with News Digital, Thea Gallagher, Doctor of Psychology and Director of Welfare Programs at Nyu Langone Health, said that when the body overheats, it struggles to regulate the internal balance.
This can lead to interrupted dream, fatigue and poor concentration, as well as a deteriorated cognitive function, slow reaction times and fighting with decision making.
Extreme heat can cause a slower cognitive function, together with delays in reaction times and decision making. (Istock)
Heat can also increase oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, aggregate Gallagher, which can damage neurons, worsen existing neurological conditions and increase the risk of stroke.
“He heat exposure can trigger an inflammatory response in the brain,” he said. “In cases such as heat stroke, it is believed that inflammation contributes to symptoms such as confusion and delirium.”
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Excessive heat can also weaken the protective barrier of the blood brain, according to the expert, which makes the brain more vulnerable to toxins and pathogens.
Higher temperatures are also associated with alterations in mood and violent behavior, especially during prolonged heat waves.
Emergency visits for mental health concerns increase during the hottest days, according to experts. (Istock)
Emergency psychiatric visits for the use of anxiety, depression and substances also increase significantly in the hottest days, Gallagher confirmed.
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Below are some of the main mental symptoms that can get worse in a warm climate, experts warned.
- Irritability, anxiety or rupture of mood
- Difficulty concentrating or “cerebral fog”
- Increased impulsivity or aggression
- Worsening of psychiatric symptoms such as depression or psychosis
- Confusion or delirium, particularly during the heat blow
People who suffer from mental health conditions such as mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety or even dementia are more vulnerable in warm climate.
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Some psychiatric medications could make it difficult for the body to regulate the temperature or remain hydrated, Gallagher said, while heat can “intensify” symptoms such as agitation or paranoia.
“People with cognitive disabilities may not recognize signs of overheating,” he added.
It is important to be patient with yourself and with others on hot days, a psychologist advised. (Istock)
“Some SSRS (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) can suppress sweat production, which is the main body cooling mechanism. This increases the risk of overheating, dehydration and even a heat stroke.”
“Paradoxically, Irs can also cause excessive sweating in some people, a side effect known as’ SSRI Sweats,” he continued. “While this may seem to help with cooling, it can actually lead to dehydration if fluid intake is not kept up to date.”
Brain health protection
Experts recommended the following practices to protect the health of the brain in extreme heat.
- Stay hydrated, since dehydration worsens the cognitive decline
- Avoid maximum heat hours; Stay inside or in shaded areas from 11 am to 4 pm
- Use fans, air conditioning or cold showers
- Use blackout curtains and cooling bedding to guarantee a repair dream
- Ask your doctor if any medication can increase heat sensitivity
- Use deep breathing techniques and relaxation to help control stress induced by heat
- Stay socially connected; Consult with friends and family
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“The days are also longer and there are more activities, which can be exhausting,” Gallagher said. “Therefore, it is good to prioritize sleep and rest … and [find] ways to reduce speed when you can. “
Angelica Stabile is a lifestyle reporter for News Digital.