Overview of “Heat” from Wikipedia, with my notes (in bold)
…heat is defined as energy transferred to the system (that system would be you, friend) by thermal interactions. Heat flows spontaneously from systems of higher temperature to systems of lower temperature (aka, it hits your skin since you’re a lower temp). When two systems come into thermal contact, they exchange thermal energy due to the microscopic interactions of their particles. When the systems are at different temperatures, the net flow of thermal energy is not zero and is directed from the hotter region to the cooler region, until their temperatures are equal and the net flow of energy is zero (the sun wants you to be the same temp). Spontaneous heat transfer is an irreversible process, which leads to the systems coming closer to mutual thermodynamic equilibrium.
I’m going to (very unscientifically) break this down. Mind you, my degree is not in Thermodynamics, so please feel free to politely mock my interpretation of this…
Basically, the sun is hot – especially when it’s combined with nasty humidity – and since your body is cooler than the outside temp, the sun is trying to heat your body to match the outside temperature. However, your internal temperature really shouldn’t be trying to match what’s going on outside during a heat wave, so it revolts and can cause the following reactions.
1) Heat exhaustion: Signs of heat exhaustion include cool, moist, pale or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea; dizziness; weakness; and exhaustion.
2) Heat Cramps: are muscular pains and spasms that usually occur in the legs or abdomen caused by exposure to high heat and humidity and loss of fluids and electrolytes. Heat cramps are often an early sign that the body is having trouble with the heat.
3) Sun Stroke: Signs of heat stroke include hot, red skin which may be dry or moist; changes in consciousness; vomiting; and high body temperature.
Of course the Red Cross has some fantastic tips for preventing the sun from getting your body to match temperatures with the outside. Download them here and be sure to share with a friend or two.
My unscientific advice? Find a cool drink and a cool place to sit. If you don’t have a cool place to sit, make one (kiddie pool with ice and a large umbrella over it works great!). Enjoy the weekend folks, and stay cool.
