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SYMPTOMS AND CAUSES OF HEATSTROKE


 

Symptoms of Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a serious medical emergency characterized by the following key symptoms:

  • High body temperature: A core body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher is the main indicator of heatstroke.

  • Altered mental state or behavior: This can include confusion, agitation, slurred speech, irritability, delirium, seizures, aggression, or even coma.

  • Change in sweating pattern: In classic (nonexertional) heatstroke, the skin may feel hot and dry. In exertional heatstroke (from intense activity), the skin may be moist from heavy sweating.

  • Flushed or red skin: The skin may appear red as body temperature increases.

  • Nausea and vomiting: Feeling sick to the stomach or vomiting is common.

  • Rapid breathing: Breathing may become fast and shallow.

  • Racing heart rate: The pulse may significantly increase as the heart works harder to cool the body.

  • Headache: Often described as throbbing.

  • Muscle weakness or cramps.

  • Dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness.

  • Loss of consciousness or seizures: In severe cases, a person may collapse or have convulsions.

Causes of Heatstroke

Heatstroke occurs when the body is unable to cool itself efficiently, leading to a dangerous rise in core temperature. The main causes include:

  • Exposure to a hot environment: Classic (nonexertional) heatstroke often results from being in hot, humid weather for prolonged periods, especially in poorly ventilated spaces. This is more common among older adults and those with chronic illnesses.

  • Strenuous physical activity in heat: Exertional heatstroke is triggered by intense exercise or labor in hot conditions, particularly when the body isn't acclimated to the heat.

  • Dehydration: Not drinking enough fluids reduces the body's ability to sweat and cool down, increasing the risk.

  • Wearing heavy or inappropriate clothing: Clothing that prevents sweat from evaporating can trap heat.

  • Alcohol use: Alcohol can impair the body’s temperature regulation.

  • Certain medications and health conditions: Some medicines and chronic illnesses can affect the body's ability to sweat or regulate temperature, raising the risk.

Risk Factors

Certain groups are more susceptible to heatstroke:

  • Older adults and very young children: Their bodies adjust to heat less efficiently.

  • People with chronic health conditions: Such as heart, lung, or kidney disease, diabetes, obesity, or mental illness.

  • People taking specific medications: Such as diuretics, antihistamines, antidepressants, and some blood pressure drugs.

  • Individuals unaccustomed to heat: Sudden exposure to high temperatures increases risk.

Summary Table: Symptoms and Causes

Symptom

Cause/Trigger

High body temperature (>104°F)

Prolonged heat exposure, exertion

Confusion, agitation, delirium

Brain dysfunction from overheating

Hot, dry or sweaty skin

Impaired sweating, physical activity

Nausea, vomiting

Overheating, dehydration

Flushed/red skin

Increased body temperature

Rapid breathing, heart rate

Body's effort to cool down

Headache, dizziness, fainting

Heat stress, dehydration

Seizures, loss of consciousness

Severe overheating, organ failure

Heatstroke requires urgent medical attention to prevent permanent damage or death. If you suspect someone has heatstroke, seek emergency help immediately and begin cooling measures while waiting for professional care.

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