Topic OverviewHeatstroke occurs when the body fails to regulate its own temperature and body temperature continues to rise, often to 40°C (104°F) or higher. Signs of rapidly progressing heatstroke include: Show
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Even with immediate treatment, it can be life-threatening or result in serious, long-term complications. After calling 911 or other emergency medical services, follow these first aid steps.
CreditsCurrent as of: July 1, 2021 Author: Healthwise
Staff OverviewWhat is heatstroke?Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that causes your body to overheat. It’s defined as a body temperature above 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius). Heatstroke, also called sunstroke, is the most severe form of hyperthermia, or heat-related illness. Heatstroke can lead to brain damage, organ failure or death. Are there different types of heatstroke?There are two types of heatstroke:
Are heat exhaustion and heatstroke the same thing?Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are both types of hyperthermia. Heat exhaustion can develop into heatstroke if left untreated. But heat exhaustion isn’t as severe as heatstroke, doesn’t cause neurological problems and usually isn’t life-threatening. Who gets heatstroke?Anyone can get heatstroke. But infants and the elderly are at especially high risk because their bodies may not be able to regulate temperature effectively. Athletes, soldiers and people with occupations that require physical labor in hot environments are also susceptible to heatstroke. Other factors that increase your risk of heatstroke include:
How common is heatstroke?Studies suggest that heatstroke occurs in about 20 out of 100,000 people each year in the U.S. It’s most common in urban areas during periods of very hot weather. Heatstroke causes between 240 and 833 deaths in the U.S. annually. Symptoms and CausesWhat causes heatstroke?Heatstroke occurs when your body can’t cool itself down. Your hypothalamus (a part of your brain that controls many bodily functions) sets your core body temperature. It typically sets your temperature at about 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius). But if your body takes in more heat than it releases, your internal temperature rises above this set-point. What are the signs and symptoms of heatstroke?Heatstroke is a medical emergency. If you or someone you know exhibits any of the following signs or symptoms, call 911 immediately:
What are the potential complications of heatstroke?People with heatstroke can develop shock or slip into a coma. High body temperature can lead to:
Diagnosis and TestsHow is heatstroke diagnosed?Healthcare providers typically diagnose heatstroke in the emergency department. They review your symptoms, perform a physical exam and take your temperature. They may also order blood tests or urinalysis. Additional tests might include a chest X-ray or electrocardiogram (EKG) to monitor the electrical activity in your heart. Management and TreatmentHow is heatstroke treated?Heatstroke requires immediate medical treatment. If you’re waiting for an ambulance to arrive, try to cool the person as much as possible by:
At the hospital, the person with heatstroke may receive:
Sometimes cold-water lavage is necessary. This treatment uses catheters (thin, flexible tubes) to fill body cavities with cold water. This helps lower the body temperature overall. The catheter may go into the rectum or down the throat. Healthcare providers stop cooling treatments once the body reaches about 102 degrees Fahrenheit (38.9 degrees Celsius). The length of time you stay in the hospital depends on the severity of your heatstroke and how well your organs are functioning. PreventionHow can I prevent heatstroke?In most cases, it’s possible to prevent heatstroke by:
Outlook / PrognosisWhat’s the prognosis (outlook) for people who’ve had heatstroke?Your outlook after heatstroke depends on a variety of factors, including:
Between 10 and 65% of people with non-exertional heatstroke die from the illness. The outlook is better for exertional heatstroke, which has a mortality rate of 3 to 5%. Some people experience permanent organ damage or neurological dysfunction. During your recovery after heatstroke, you can expect changes in your body temperature for several weeks. You should avoid physical activity for at least a week. You will also need periodic tests to monitor your kidney and liver function. Even temporary complications of heatstroke can take several months to go away. After you’ve had heatstroke once, you’re more likely to get this heat illness again. Take preventive measures any time you plan to be in hot conditions. Living WithWhen should I contact my doctor?If you’ve had heatstroke and are recovering, contact your doctor right away if you experience anything abnormal such as:
A note from Cleveland Clinic Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that occurs when your body temperature gets too high. It’s usually the result of overexertion in hot, humid weather. Symptoms may include confusion, seizures or loss of consciousness, among others. If you or someone you know has heatstroke, seek immediate medical attention and try to lower the person’s body temperature as quickly as possible. What is the immediate step to take if you suspect heat stroke?Confusion, slurred speech, or unconsciousness are signs of heat stroke. When these types of symptoms are present, call 911 immediately and cool the worker with ice or cold water until help arrives.
What is the first thing you should do if you suspect someone has heat exhaustion?Move the person out of the heat and into a shady or air-conditioned place. Lay the person down and elevate the legs and feet slightly. Remove tight or heavy clothing. Have the person sip chilled water, a decaffeinated sports drink containing electrolytes or other nonalcoholic beverage without caffeine.
What are the 3 steps to treating heat stroke?Heatstroke treatment centers on cooling your body to a normal temperature to prevent or reduce damage to your brain and vital organs.. Immerse you in cold water. ... . Use evaporation cooling techniques. ... . Pack you with ice and cooling blankets.. What 4 things should you do with a person who has heat stroke?Take the following steps to treat a worker with heat stroke:. Call 911 for emergency medical care.. Stay with the worker until emergency medical services arrive.. Move the worker to a shaded, cool area and remove outer clothing.. Cool the worker quickly, using the following methods:. |