Kuumarabandust

Kuumarabandust is a term used in environmental health literature to describe a syndrome of sudden heat intolerance marked by neurologic and systemic symptoms following exposure to hot conditions. The condition is defined by abrupt onset during or soon after heat exposure, often with physical exertion or inadequate hydration, and resolves with cooling and rehydration.

Symptoms commonly include dizziness, vertigo, unsteady gait, confusion or disorientation, nausea, sweating cessation or profuse sweating, tachycardia, and faintness. In severe cases, loss of consciousness or seizures can occur. The onset typically follows exposure to high ambient temperatures and humidity, especially when fluid intake is insufficient.

Causes and risk factors include prolonged exposure to high temperatures, dehydration, strenuous activity, and certain medications that impair sweating or cardiovascular response. Older adults, people with cardiovascular disease, or those with diabetes, and those taking diuretics or anticholinergic drugs are at higher risk.

Pathophysiology involves partial failure of thermoregulation with relative hypovolemia, decreased cerebral perfusion, and metabolic stress. This combination leads to the observed neurologic and systemic signs.

Diagnosis is clinical, based on heat exposure with compatible symptoms and absence of an alternative explanation such as stroke or hypoglycemia. Supportive laboratory testing may be used to exclude other conditions. Treatment emphasizes rapid cooling, shade, removal of excess clothing, and rehydration with electrolytes; severe cases require emergency care and intravenous fluids.

Prognosis is generally favorable with prompt treatment; delayed care increases the risk of heat stroke and organ injury. The syndrome is most often discussed in temperate to hot climates during heatwaves and is the subject of ongoing but limited research.