The Conversation: Heat May Increase Physical Pain and Reduce Productivity

High temperatures may affect not only overall well-being and brain function but also increase physical pain, according to a new article published by The Conversation.

Researchers analyzed data from a large national Gallup survey that tracked daily pain reports from more than 2 million people across the United States. They found that as temperatures rose, people became more likely to report various types of general physical pain.

The increase was most pronounced on extremely hot days, when temperatures reached approximately 32°C (90°F) or higher. The strongest effects were observed among middle-aged adults and people with lower socioeconomic status.

According to the researchers, several factors may explain the link. Heat can directly affect the body through dehydration, inflammation, and changes in blood pressure, potentially worsening existing pain. In addition, high temperatures can increase stress, disrupt sleep, reduce physical activity, and impair overall well-being, all of which may heighten the perception of pain.

The researchers note that heat and poor sleep may create a vicious cycle: inadequate sleep can make people more sensitive to pain, while pain itself can interfere with sleep. Over time, this cycle may negatively affect quality of life.

Pain can also impair cognitive performance because it demands attention and reduces the mental resources available for concentration, memory, and decision-making. As a result, it may decrease productivity at work, affect learning, and make everyday tasks more difficult.

At the same time, the researchers emphasize that localized heat therapy—such as using a heating pad for lower back pain—can be beneficial. However, prolonged exposure of the entire body to high temperatures has the opposite effect and places additional stress on the body's physiological systems.

The authors estimate that heat-related pain already costs the U.S. economy about $2 billion annually. If temperatures continue to rise and adaptation measures are not implemented, those losses could exceed $9 billion per year by 2050.

To reduce the health risks of extreme heat, the researchers recommend staying well hydrated, avoiding strenuous physical activity during the hottest part of the day, seeking cool indoor environments, and scheduling outdoor activities for the early morning or evening hours.

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