Extremes of temperature and hydration

As travelers become more adventurous, exposure to climatic and environmental extremes became common. Understanding the limits of the human physiology, the hazards of physical exertion under hostile climate conditions and education about the importance of adequate preparations in terms of work-rest cycles, clothing, fluid consumption, and acclimation have become important. Likewise, assimilating some behavioral-preventing measures will help to prevent injuries that might be serious and even life threatening. This chapter will help the traveler and the health providers to recognize the risks of heat-related (e.g., heatstroke, dehydration) and cold-related (e.g., hypothermia, frostbite) injuries and the safety measures needed while traveling in hot and cold climate conditions.