Why Am I Suddenly Sensitive to Heat? Body Temperature Changes

Increasing sensitivity to heat and elevated body temperature?

Hello, doctor: When I was a child, I was very sensitive to cold and had a high tolerance for heat.
During the summer, I could stay in a room without air conditioning without any issues, and even when the air conditioning was on, I couldn't set it lower than 28 degrees Celsius (sometimes even 29 degrees felt cold), otherwise, I would need to wear a jacket.
Additionally, I could wear long pants throughout the summer.
My body temperature was similar to that of my peers, around 36.0 degrees Celsius.
In middle school, some classmates mentioned that my body felt very warm (even though I wasn't running a fever), but I still had a high tolerance for heat and was sensitive to cold.
However, after experiencing heatstroke last summer (possibly because I was afraid of catching a cold and set the air conditioning to 29 degrees or didn't use it at all), I became very sensitive to heat.
At home, I couldn't even tolerate thin long pants, so I stopped wearing them altogether (since I don't own shorts).
Yet, I still felt cold last winter, even more so than before.
This summer, I am even more sensitive to heat; I feel hot even with the air conditioning set to 27 degrees, and I often feel my body is warm, with temperatures usually ranging from 37.0 to 37.5 degrees Celsius.
I have already experienced heatstroke twice this year.
Additionally, early this summer, I often felt an intense itch in my legs (which I had never experienced before), but it stopped after summer vacation.
Could my heightened sensitivity to heat this year be related to the use of Sanfu plaster? Am I still in a state of heatstroke? Has my constitution really changed? Should I see a doctor? Is this abnormal?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/18

Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine

● I am not familiar with Sanfu Plaster; please consult your physician.
● During the summer, it is possible to have a higher body temperature due to the hot weather; generally, no one remains in a state of heatstroke continuously.
● If you feel hot but your body temperature is not elevated, it can be observed.
A small percentage may be due to infections, endocrine disorders, tachycardia, etc.
It is recommended to seek further evaluation and treatment from a family medicine or internal medicine specialist.
Wishing you good health, Dr.
Chen Tai-Cheng from Taoyuan Hospital's Family Medicine Department cares about you~

Reply Date: 2017/08/18

More Info

Your experience of suddenly becoming sensitive to heat, especially after having been tolerant of it for many years, raises several important questions about your body's thermoregulation and overall health. Let's break down the potential reasons for this change and what you might consider doing next.

Firstly, it's essential to understand that our bodies have a remarkable ability to adapt to various environmental conditions. Factors such as age, hormonal changes, lifestyle, and even past illnesses can significantly influence how we perceive temperature. In your case, it seems that a significant event—your experience of heatstroke last summer—may have triggered a shift in your body's response to heat. Heatstroke can lead to long-term changes in how your body regulates temperature, potentially making you more sensitive to heat in the future.

When you mention that your body temperature now ranges from 37.0 to 37.5 degrees Celsius, it is worth noting that this is slightly above the average normal body temperature, which is typically around 36.1 to 37.2 degrees Celsius. A consistent elevation in body temperature can be a sign of several underlying issues, including infections, inflammatory conditions, or even hormonal imbalances. Given that you also mentioned experiencing intense itching in your legs, this could indicate an allergic reaction, skin condition, or even a systemic issue that warrants further investigation.

Your concern about the use of "三伏貼" (Sanfu Ties) is also valid. These herbal patches are traditionally used in Chinese medicine to enhance the body's resistance to cold and to treat various ailments. However, if used improperly or if your body is not responding well to them, they could potentially exacerbate your sensitivity to heat. It’s crucial to monitor how your body reacts to such treatments and consult with a healthcare professional if you notice any adverse effects.

Additionally, the fact that you are experiencing increased sensitivity to heat while still feeling cold in cooler temperatures suggests a possible imbalance in your body's thermoregulation mechanisms. This could be related to your autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions, including temperature regulation. Stress, anxiety, and other psychological factors can also play a role in how your body perceives temperature changes.

Given these factors, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare professional. A thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly some laboratory tests, can help identify any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms. It is particularly important to rule out any endocrine issues, such as thyroid dysfunction, which can significantly impact your body's temperature regulation.

In summary, your sudden sensitivity to heat could be attributed to several factors, including the aftermath of heatstroke, potential hormonal changes, or even psychological factors. It is advisable to seek medical attention to ensure that any underlying issues are addressed and to receive guidance on how to manage your symptoms effectively. Remember, changes in body temperature perception can be complex, and a healthcare provider can help you navigate this situation with the appropriate care and support.

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