T67: Effects of heat and light

The group of conditions termed as 'Effects of heat and light' broadly encompass a range of physical health issues caused due to exposure to high temperatures, sunlight or artificial light sources. These are not transmitted diseases, but environmental health problems. Common symptoms can range from mild conditions like heat rash or sunburn, where the skin becomes red and discomforting, to more severe conditions such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or the life-threatening heatstroke. In heatstroke, the body's cooling system fails, leading to a rapid rise in body temperature that can damage the brain and internal organs. Other possible effects include photo-ophthalmia and snow blindness, which are injuries to the eyes from UV radiation. The severity and progression of these conditions depend heavily on the duration of exposure and the individual's health status at the time of exposure. Systems typically affected include the skin, circulatory system, nervous system, and in severe cases, multiple organ systems.