In the present study we have examined the response of endogenous opiates (β-EP and
Met-enk) and ACTH to a particular type of thermal stimulus such as sauna in 8 young
healthy subjects. Sauna-induced hyperthermia resulted in an increase of plasma β-EP
and ACTH, but appeared to have no significant effect on circulating Met-enk. The different
responses of ACTH, β-EP and Met-enk to heat exposure indicate that hyperthermia represents
a form of stress, which can trigger off a well-defined neuroendocrine reaction.
Sauna - β-Endorphin - Enkephalins - ACTH - Stress
