North India has been suffering from severe heatwave spells, with temperatures in parts of Delhi rising up to almost 50°C.

A recent study found that the highest temperature the human body can handle before malfunctioning is between 40 and 50 degrees Celsius .

Sunstroke (Heatstroke) If the temperature continues to rise, you could suffer from sunstroke (also known as heatstroke) that can cause severe damage to vital organs and may be fatal.

Internal Effects Internally, proteins in the body start denaturing that means proteins stop working, affecting nerve impulses and overall bodily function, impacting the heart’s function.

Metabolic Rate and Core Temperature Metabolic rates rise as the body works to lower its temperature.

Self-Care in Extreme Heat If you feel dizzy, sick, or faint in extreme heat, find a cool, shaded place and drink water. Applying ice or cold water to the wrist, neck, chest, and temples can help lower your blood temperature.

Increased risk of dehydration As the temperature rises above 37.5°C, the body sweats further and risks of dehydration increases. This can cause impact.

Irreversible damage to cells Human body cells start to die anywhere between 46-60°C and at around 50°C, irreversible damage to cells start as the proteins within begin to coagulate