Ep. 27 - Thermoregulation: The Physics and Physiology of Body Temperature Regulation
Description
In this episode of Wilderness Medicine Updates, host Patrick Fink delves into the topic of thermoregulation, explaining how our bodies regulate temperature in response to environmental changes. Listeners will learn about methods of heat exchange (conduction, convection, radiation, and evaporation), how to measure core temperature, and the body's physiological responses—such as shivering, sweating, and blood flow control.
The episode also touches on the effects of age, metabolic stressors, and pregnancy on thermoregulation, as well as the importance of understanding these principles in the context of treating conditions like hypothermia and heat-related illnesses.
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
01:29 Importance of Thermoregulation
03:12 Human Thermoregulation Mechanisms
04:20 Measuring Core Temperature
07:55 Heat Exchange Methods
14:52 Behavioral and Physiological Responses
24:48 Sex and Age Differences in Thermoregulation
27:14 Conclusion and Next Steps
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