Hyperthermia

Hyperthermia, also known as heat stroke or sunstroke, is an acute condition resulting from the body producing or absorbing more heat than it can dissipate, usually due to excessive exposure to heat. The homeothermal regulatory mechanisms eventually become overwhelmed and unable to effectively deal with the heat, and body temperature climbs uncontrollably. This is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate hospitalization. Body temperatures above 40 °C (104 °F) are life-threatening. At 41 °C (106 °F), brain death begins, and at 45 °C (113 °F) death is nearly certain. Internal temperatures above 50 °C (122 °F) will cause rigidity in the muscles and certain, immediate death.

Signs and symptoms

• Markly raised temperature of about 40°C (104°F) or more. Lower temperatures above 37°C (98.6°F) are a serious problem and mean that there is an impending heat-stroke that can only be reversed by first aid and preventative measures.

THIS IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY AND NEEDS IMMEDIATE TREATMENT!

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These are the other symptoms

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• Confusion
• Fainting, faintness, dizziness and weakness. Posteral hypotension (fainting and dizziness on standing up)
• Fast heart rate (tachycardia)
• Profuse sweating which will eventually lead to an absence of sweating
• Red skin or even bluish skin
• Nausea and vomiting
• Coma/Unconsciousness
• Convulsions (especially in children in which temperature are often lower than heat-stroke temperatures)
• Feeling very hot (during the on-set)
• Chills and shivering is possible
• Fast breathing
• Shaking body is possible
• Loss of appetite
• Headache
• Skin may feel hot to touch