WHAT IS HEATSTROKE

What Is Heatstroke?

Heatstroke is a life-threatening medical emergency that occurs when the body’s core temperature rises above 40°C (104°F) and the body can no longer cool itself effectively. This condition can rapidly cause damage to the brain and vital organs, and can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Causes

Heatstroke can develop in two main ways:

Classic (non-exertional) heatstroke: This occurs after exposure to high environmental temperatures, especially in hot, humid weather. It often affects older adults, young children, or people with chronic health conditions, particularly when they are in poorly ventilated or uncooled environments.
Exertional heatstroke: This is triggered by intense physical activity in hot conditions, commonly affecting athletes, outdoor workers, or military personnel. Heavy clothing, dehydration, and lack of acclimatization to heat increase the risk.

Other contributing factors include wearing heavy clothing, drinking alcohol, certain medications, and dehydration.

Symptoms

The hallmark of heatstroke is a core body temperature above 40°C (104°F). Other symptoms include:

Confusion, agitation, delirium, or strange behavior
Dizziness, fainting, or loss of consciousness
Throbbing headache
Nausea and vomiting
Rapid heartbeat and shallow breathing
Red, hot, and dry skin (though sweating may still occur in exertional heatstroke)
Seizures or muscle cramps
Slurred speech and poor coordination

Why Is Heatstroke Dangerous?

Heatstroke can quickly lead to serious complications such as:

Brain damage
Multi-organ failure (including kidney and heart failure)
Seizures
Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown)
Death, if not treated urgently

Who Is at Risk?

Anyone can develop heatstroke, but risk is higher in:

Very young children and older adults
People with chronic illnesses or on certain medications
Athletes and outdoor workers
Individuals exposed suddenly to hot weather or heatwaves
Those wearing heavy or non-breathable clothing

Immediate Actions and Treatment

Heatstroke requires immediate medical attention. First aid steps include:

Moving the person to a cooler environment
Removing excess clothing
Cooling the body with water (cool bath, shower, wet towels, or ice packs on armpits, groin, neck, and head)
Fanning or misting with cool water
Calling emergency services immediately

Summary Table: Heatstroke vs. Heat Exhaustion

Feature	Heat Exhaustion	Heatstroke
Core temperature	Normal or slightly raised	Above 40°C (104°F)
Sweating	Profuse	May stop (classic); may persist (exertional)
Mental state	Weakness, dizziness	Confusion, delirium, unconsciousness
Skin	Cool, pale, clammy	Red, hot, dry (or damp)
Risk	Can progress to heatstroke	Life-threatening emergency

Key Takeaway

Heatstroke is the most severe form of heat-related illness, marked by a dangerously high body temperature and neurological symptoms. It is a medical emergency that can cause permanent organ damage or death if not treated immediately.

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