How External and Internal Heat Affects The Body

Hot temperatures can be a problem for many people with spine disorders or neurological issues as heat can stop nerve fibers from working properly. Messages cannot get through to and from the brain and as a result, you may experience fatigue, weakness, or problems with balance or vision.

The part of the brain called the hypothalamus is responsible for regulating your body temperature. It accomplishes this by sending signals to the body to start sweating if it gets too hot, or shivering if it gets cold.

Stress can also create a warming sensation in your body as the stress stress hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine are released when you're stressed out, nervous, or upset. Massage therapy helps relax the body, allowing a "reset" of the autonomic nervous system. 

Certain medications, such as some blood pressure medicine, can affect your tolerance of heat. Hot flashes may be a side effect of some prescription medications. Raloxifene (Evista), commonly prescribed for osteoporosis, and tamoxifen (Tamoxifen and Nolvadex), a treatment for breast cancer, may cause skin flushing and hot flashes. Hot flashes may be a side effect of chemotherapy too. Some over-the-counter medications can also cause symptoms that mimic those of menopause-related hot flashes.

Heat can also trigger headaches, migraines, sinus issues and allergies for many.  We highly recommend our Cold Stone Therapy Massage for relief!

 How to cool down?

Keep hydrated. Make sure you drink regularly throughout the day, and always carry water with you if you go out. You should consume half your body weight in water daily.

Eat cold foods like salad and fruits have a high water content.

Exercise during the coolest parts of the day.

Wear light-colored, loose fabrics, open shoes or sandals and a hat to shade you from the sun. 

Spritz cool water over yourself or have a cool shower. 

Keep ice packs and freezable eye masks handy.