What is causing my camera to heat itself so much?

I agree that your camera might not be working right and getting too hot could fry the circuitry. If you like your camera, you should take it in to a camera repair for an estimate. Some places estimate for free (not many, though) and some charge a small fee to examine your camera and determine if it can be fixed. If the fee is not much, it is worth it for your piece of mind. I would not use the camera until you take it in.