During the sweltering summer months, persistently high temperatures make people highly susceptible to symptoms of internal heat. Summer is the season when such symptoms are most severe. Understanding these symptoms helps in prevention and treatment. So, what are the signs of internal heat? Experts note that patients often experience a sore throat, mouth ulcers, dry and cracked lips, and nasal congestion. Below is a detailed explanation of these symptoms.
1. Cracks at the corners of the mouth or mouth sores
During summer, conditions like angular cheilitis and mouth sores become very common. These are what we often refer to as canker sores, one of the symptoms of internal heat. Patients suffering from canker sores experience significant discomfort, finding it difficult not only to eat but also to speak.
2. Insomnia and Irritability
The summer heat naturally makes people restless and anxious. Some may even experience insomnia and irritability, which are symptoms of "liver fire"—commonly known as liver heat.Over time, this can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and stomach discomfort—classic signs of spleen and stomach "heat."
4. Chapped Lips
Some people experience dry, cracked lips in summer. Beyond dryness, internal heat is a contributing factor. Avoid picking at the skin, as this worsens cracking and may cause bleeding.
5. Sore throat
Many people experience frequent sore throats after early summer begins. Experts note this is the most common sign of internal heat, often caused by excess heat.
6. Nasal Congestion
High summer temperatures often cause nasal congestion and elevated nasal cavity temperatures—both signs of internal heat.Of course, this fire must remain within healthy limits—for instance, body temperature should hover around 37°C. When fire becomes excessive, discomfort arises, manifesting as redness, swelling, heat, pain, and irritability.
8. Nosebleeds
Excessive dryness in the nasal passages during summer can cause capillary rupture and bleeding. Nosebleeds are often triggered by heat forcing blood to flow recklessly, commonly stemming from lung heat, stomach heat, or liver heat.
9. Facial Acne
Summer's dry heat makes people prone to internal heat. Combined with poor dietary habits, this easily leads to acne breakouts on the skin.
10. Constipation and Bloating
In extreme heat, many people consume excessive cold beverages daily. This often results in constipation and bloating despite limited food intake, sometimes accompanied by summer acne. This occurs because excessive sweets overstimulate "stomach fire."
11. Dry, Itchy Skin
Dry, itchy skin is another sign of summer heat accumulation. Some may even develop small red bumps, indicating not only heat accumulation but also allergic reactions.
12. Dry, Hoarse Throat
High summer temperatures and excessive sweating make people prone to internal heat. Nutrients and fluids are lost through perspiration, leading to dehydration and a dry, hoarse throat—another symptom of internal heat.
If you experience any of the above symptoms, be aware that you may be experiencing internal heat. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent further harm to your body.