Extreme Heat Impacts Brain Function

Scientists have confirmed that extreme heat negatively impacts brain function, making people more distracted and clumsy. This is especially noticeable in people with pre-existing neurological disorders. During extreme heat, even healthy individuals are at risk of reduced mental capabilities: decision-making ability worsens, propensity for risky behavior increases, and short-term memory and concentration decline. The mechanism of this process is related to disruptions in the brain's thermoregulation system. Moreover, prolonged exposure to heat, especially warm nights, significantly worsens sleep quality, which in turn raises the risk of cognitive impairments, irritability, anxiety, depression, and even increases the likelihood of suicidal thoughts.