3K

Heat stress

UK //hiːt strɛs// US //hit strɛs// Pronunciation

Definition

A condition caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures, leading to a rise in body temperature.

Listen to definition

In simple words: When your body gets too hot and can't cool down properly.

Examples

• Workers in agricultural fields are often at risk of heat stress during summer.
• Signs of heat stress include excessive sweating and dizziness.
• To prevent heat stress, it's important to stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade.
• Athletes must be cautious of heat stress when performing in high temperatures.
• Heat stress can lead to serious health complications if not addressed early.

Usage notes

Use 'heat stress' when discussing health impacts of high temperatures, especially in formal contexts like medical discussions or safety regulations.

Grammar pattern

standalone term

Memory hint

Think of 'heat' like the sun and 'stress' as pressure on your body.

Collocations

• prevent heat stress
• symptoms of heat stress
• heat stress management

Synonyms

• heat illness
• thermal stress
• hyperthermia

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'heat exhaustion' - heat stress is broader and can lead to heat exhaustion.
• Using 'heat stress' in non-health contexts mistakenly, as it should mainly refer to physiological effects.