Table 2.
Physiological System | Role in Thermoregulation |
---|---|
The cardiovascular system | Heart and blood vessels transport heat in blood Differential perfusion shunts blood and heat to skin for cooling Changes in heart rate and blood vessel tone compensate for dilated vasculature and dehydration |
Nervous system Higher functions Paleo-brain (hypothalamus) Autonomic (sympathetic/parasympathetic) nerves |
Cognitive assessment of risks, planning and taking action Control of thermoregulation Control and modulation of blood vessels, heart, sweat glands |
Integumentary system (Skin) | Sweat glands moisten the skin- allowing for evaporative cooling Subcutaneous fat (insulation) |
Renal, under influence of endocrine system | Water and electrolyte regulation |