What is a common physiological effect of heat exposure on muscles?

When exposed to heat, muscles can experience dehydration, which leads to a reduction in their volume. The increased temperature causes the water content within the muscle tissues to evaporate, resulting in the muscles shrinking as they lose fluid. This dehydration can also impair muscle performance, leading to decreased strength and endurance.

The response of muscles to heat is essential in understanding how body temperature regulation impacts athletic performance and recovery since maintaining proper hydration is crucial for optimal muscle function. While swelling and expansion may occur momentarily due to increased blood flow to the muscles during physical activity, the overall dehydrating effect of prolonged heat exposure outweighs this temporary response. Consequently, the shrinking of muscles due to dehydration is a notable physiological effect that physically manifests in reduced muscle capacity and increased risk of injury during heat exposure.