Overheating
Overheating (Medicine)
Overheating (pronunciation: /ˌəʊvəˈhiːtɪŋ/) is a medical condition that occurs when the body's internal temperature rises above the normal range, typically due to excessive heat exposure or strenuous physical activity.
Etymology
The term "overheating" is derived from the English words "over," meaning excessively, and "heat," referring to high temperature. It has been used in the medical context since the late 19th century.
Causes
Overheating can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Heat stroke: A severe form of heat illness that occurs when the body's temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down.
- Dehydration: A condition that occurs when you lose more fluid than you take in, and your body doesn't have enough water and other fluids to carry out its normal functions.
- Hyperthyroidism: A condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, which can increase the body's metabolism and cause overheating.
- Fever: A temporary increase in body temperature, often due to an illness.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of overheating include:
- Excessive sweating or lack of sweating
- Weakness or fatigue
- Dizziness or fainting
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid heartbeat
- Muscle cramps
Treatment
Treatment for overheating typically involves cooling the body to a normal temperature and addressing the underlying cause. This may include:
- Resting in a cool place
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Applying cool compresses
- Taking over-the-counter medications to reduce fever
In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.
Prevention
Prevention strategies for overheating include:
- Staying hydrated
- Avoiding excessive heat and sun exposure
- Wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
- Taking breaks during physical activity
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Overheating
- Wikipedia's article - Overheating
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