Hyperthermia

Hyperthermia is a condition in which the body overheats due to an inability to regulate its temperature effectively. Normally, the human body maintains a stable internal temperature around 98.6°F (37°C) through mechanisms like sweating, breathing, and blood circulation. In hyperthermia, these mechanisms fail, causing the body temperature to rise dangerously above normal levels. If untreated, it can lead to severe complications, including organ failure and even death.

Hyperthermia typically occurs when external factors such as high environmental temperatures or intense physical exertion overwhelm the body's cooling system. It differs from fever, where the body intentionally raises its temperature as part of the immune response to an infection.

How does Hyperthermia happen?

The body is exposed to high temperatures, or it generates excess heat (e.g., during exercise). This overwhelms heat dissipation mechanisms. Initially, the body tries to cool itself by sweating, which evaporates and removes heat. However, in high humidity, sweat cannot evaporate efficiently. Excessive sweating leads to fluid and electrolyte loss, impairing the body's ability to cool itself causing dehydration. As blood volume decreases, less blood circulates to the skin for cooling. Muscle cramps, fatigue, nausea, and dizziness occur as a result of fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Blood vessels dilate (expand), causing a drop in blood pressure, which may lead to fainting.

Heat stroke (Severe Hyperthermia)

Core Temperature Rises above 104°F (40°C): This is life-threatening.

• Organ Dysfunction: Proteins in cells begin to denature (break down), leading to cellular damage in organs like the brain, heart, and kidneys.
• Neurological Symptoms: Confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness occur as the brain overheats.

Ayurvedic Perspective on Hyperthermia

Ayurveda categorizes hyperthermia under "Pitta Prakopa" (aggravation of the Pitta dosha), as Pitta governs body heat and metabolism. Excessive heat in the environment or body triggers an imbalance in Pitta, leading to symptoms akin to hyperthermia. This condition can be related to "Agnimandya" (digestive fire disturbance) and "Santapa" (overheating and exhaustion).

Ayurvedic Treatment for Hyperthermia

Ayurvedic treatment focuses on pacifying aggravated Pitta, restoring fluid balance, and cooling the body. This involves internal medicines, external therapies, dietary modifications, and lifestyle practices.

Cooling measures

• Coconut water, sugarcane juice, or fresh buttermilk help rehydrate and cool the body.
• Decoctions of herbs like coriander (Dhania) and sandalwood (Chandan) are effective.
• Application of sandalwood paste or aloe vera gel to the skin.
• Sheetala Parisheka: Pouring cold herbal decoctions over the body to reduce heat.
• Lepana: Application of cooling herbal pastes on the forehead and body.

Dietary Guidelines

• Include Pitta-pacifying foods:
• Sweet, cool, and hydrating foods like cucumber, watermelon, and ripe fruits.
• Milk with cardamom or saffron for cooling effects.
• Avoid Pitta-aggravating items: e g.Spicy, sour, and salty foods, as well as fermented items like pickles.

Panchakarma Detox (If Necessary)

• Virechana (Therapeutic Purgation): To eliminate excess Pitta and heat from the body.
• Takradhara: A cooling therapy where medicated buttermilk is poured on the forehead.

Internal Medicines

Shadanga Paniya:

A traditional drink made from six cooling herbs like Musta (Nutgrass) and Parpataka (Fumaria indica).

Praval Pishti:

A cooling mineral-based Ayurvedic formulation.

Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia):

Known for its Pitta-pacifying and rejuvenating properties.

Hyperthermia is a serious condition that requires prompt attention to prevent life-threatening complications. From an Ayurvedic perspective, it is managed by balancing the Pitta dosha, using cooling therapies, hydrating remedies, and dietary adjustments. This holistic approach not only treats the condition but also strengthens the body's resilience to heat stress.