2007-01-03 23:17:52 · 5 answers · asked by blackcode88 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Medicine
The body relies on chemical reactions that are affected by temperature. One problem with hypothermia (especially in the very young or old) is that the temperature regulator of the body ceases to operate and artificial heat is needed to restore it to operation. Hypothermia that chills the brain also can cause confusion affecting judgment that may cause a victim to not seek rescue.
2007-01-03 23:44:13 · answer #1 · answered by Kes 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You ever wash cloths in cold water when it should have been in warm water? Does not get the cloths as clean, right?
Why??? Because the process of detergent cleaning the cloths is a chemical reaction, which has been slowed by the decrease in temperature.
Same thing with the body! We have to maintain the 98.6 degrees F (37 C), in order for optimal rate of chemical reaction. Also, don't forget, if the body's temperature gets too hot, this will inhibit chemical reactions, too, especially if the temp gets too hot for too long. A short term slightly higher temp is okay.
2007-01-04 04:13:55 · answer #2 · answered by Karl Lo 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
All enzymes in your body cause chemical reactions, catbolism, anabolism, etc., are necessary for life, and will not work at extremes of temperatures (that includes extreme heat and even pH). Enzymes are proteins that help join two things together to form one new thing. Think of a car- if you had 4 tires in one pile, and a car without wheels in another pile, neither one of them is of any use to you. If they are together, then you are able to use it! Enzymes match things up for your body so it can be used.
Even if enzymes worked at extreme temperatures, your circulation would be horrible, since your veins would shunt all that blood to the most important organs: heart, brain, kidneys. It wouldn't do your muscles a lot of good, since they would'nt be able to use energy very well, or nerve impulses wouldn't be normal, because that requires energy. You wouldn't be able to grow new cells, or your cells wouldn't work properly because the enzymes required wouldn't work.
2007-01-04 06:30:38 · answer #3 · answered by K H 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
cos i think (extreme) cold could make your cv system sluggish, thats why your body doesnt function well...
2007-01-03 23:26:31 · answer #4 · answered by may777 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
ur blood is not running through your system as well
2007-01-04 05:35:31 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋