Summer heat makes people’s body temperatures rise. The body automatically triggers certain functions to keep cool, such as increasing sweating and breathing. However, heat stroke may result when the ambient temperature is too high and physiological self-adjustments fail to control body temperature. So how do we know if heat stroke is imminent? And how can we prevent it?
A 2015 review of research published in Comprehensive Physiology noted that heat stroke is a life-threatening medical condition clinically diagnosed as an immense increase in body temperature accompanied by central nervous system dysfunction. The long-term consequences of heat stroke are thought to be caused by systemic inflammatory response syndrome.
Symptoms of Heat Stroke
Here are some possible symptoms of heat stroke:- Headache: You may experience severe head pain or dizziness.
- Restlessness and anxiety: You may feel restless, anxious, or irritable.
- Elevated body temperature: This represents an increase in body temperature above the normal range of 37 to 38 C (98.6 to 100.4 F). Extremely severe heat stroke may increase body temperature above 40 C (104 F).
- Skin symptoms: Skin may become hot, red, and sweat profusely.
- Increased heart rate: During heat stroke, the heart rate may increase, giving you a feeling of rapid pulsation.
- Dyspnea: Breathing may become difficult, rapid, or shallow.
- Nausea and vomiting: People may feel sick and vomit during heat stroke.
- Fatigue and frailty: Heat stroke can cause weakness and lack of strength.
- Convulsions and loss of consciousness: Severe heat stroke may cause muscle cramps, coma, and loss of consciousness.
