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Heat intolerance: predisposing factor or residual injury?
1Heller Institute of Medical Research, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel.
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|February 1, 1990
Summary
Individual heat tolerance varies greatly, with some susceptible individuals at risk for exertional heat stroke. Recognizing predisposing factors like dehydration or prior heat illness is crucial for prevention and assessing thermoregulation.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Physiology
- Sports Medicine
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Individual variability in heat stress tolerance is significant.
- Certain populations, including athletes and laborers, are at higher risk for exertional heat stroke.
- Heat intolerance can stem from functional, congenital, or acquired factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify predisposing factors for heat intolerance.
- To emphasize the importance of recognizing individuals susceptible to heat stress.
- To recommend post-heat stroke evaluation for residual thermoregulatory injury.
Main Methods:
- Review of factors contributing to heat intolerance.
- Identification of at-risk populations.
- Clinical observation and assessment of heat susceptibility.
Main Results:
- Heat intolerance is often predictable based on several factors.
- Dehydration, obesity, poor fitness, lack of acclimatization, illness, and skin conditions are key predisposing factors.
- Previous heat stroke may indicate underlying susceptibility requiring further testing.
Conclusions:
- Proactive identification of heat intolerance risk factors is essential.
- Individuals with a history of heat stroke require specific assessment for thermoregulatory function.
- Understanding individual heat tolerance aids in preventing heat-related illnesses.