Brain Computer Similarities, 6

In order to function properly, the brain needs to be in a body where the constant temperature typically is somewhere in the range of 97 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature gauge for the brain and body is located inside the brain, the hypothalamus If your temperature gets too high, the hypothalamus tries to set in motion strategies that might bring down the temperature. For example, it might trigger blood vessels to dilate which creates sweating. The sweating, in turn, triggers evaporation that creates a cooling effect. A temperature that registers 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit may indicate that hyperthermia is setting in. Hyperthermia (too hot) is the term for overheating of the body and specifically in the brain. The term malignant hyperthermia is a rare condition related to body-temperature dysfunction. Did you know that some drugs can cause hyperthermia? The risk of hyperthermia rises in people who use stimulant drugs such as cocaine, MDMA or Ecstasy, or methamphetamine. Delirium tremens, a complication of heavy alcohol use, can trigger hyperthermia. More tomorrow.