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Thermoreceptors Essay

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Thermoreceptors Essay
Thermoreceptors are specific nerve cells that are able to detect differences in temperature. Thermoreceptors are able to detect heat and cold, and are found throughout the skin in order to allow sensory reception throughout the body. The body’s core temperature is a constant 37° C by physiological adjustments controlled by the hypothalamus where there are neurons sensitive to changes in skin and blood temperatures. The temperature-regulating centres are found in the Preoptic Area. This area receives input from temperature receptors in the skin and mucous membranes from internal structures, which include the hypothalamus. Temperature sensory signals from the preoptic area and form the periphery are combined in the posterior hypothalamus to control …show more content…
3) Your hypothalamus activates one of several mechanisms to decrease your temperature.
The same process occurs when your body senses your temperature is falling too low. The location and number of thermoreceptors will determine the sensitivity of the skin to temperature changes. First, heat receptors are closer to the skin's surface, while cold receptors are found deeper in the dermis. This means that sensitivity to hot temperatures will be higher than lower temperatures based on the location, also different sections of the skin will have more receptors than others. The hand, for example, has more thermoreceptors than the thigh or shin, which means it, will be more sensitive to temperature changes.
Cold exposure: When the balance between the body's heat production and heat loss tips toward heat loss for a prolonged period, hypothermia can occur. Hypothermia usually happens after cold temperature exposure without enough warm, dry clothing for protection. Mountain climbers on Mount Everest avoid hypothermia by wearing specialized, high-tech gear designed for that windy, icy environment. However, much milder environments can also lead to hypothermia, depending on a person's age, body mass, body fat, overall health, and length of time exposed to cold temperatures. A frail, older adult in a 15.5°C house after a power outage can develop mild hypothermia overnight. Infants and babies sleeping in cold

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