Hyperthermia occurs when the body is unable to effectively lower its temperature in hot conditions. Normally, the body regulates its temperature through sweating, but prolonged exposure to heat without adequate hydration can disrupt this process. As a result, the body’s temperature may rise, leading to symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, and fatigue. Without prompt intervention to lower body temperature and rehydrate, hyperthermia can progress to heat stroke, a medical emergency where the body’s core temperature exceeds 40 degrees Celsius. Heat stroke can affect anyone, but the elderly and young children are particularly vulnerable. Factors such as dehydration, alcohol consumption, certain medications, and wearing excessive or tight clothing can increase the risk of heat stroke. In this condition, the body’s core temperature elevation triggers inflammatory responses, potentially leading to dysfunction in organs such as muscles, liver, kidneys, lungs, and heart. Heat stroke is characterized by systemic inflammation and multiple organ dysfunction, often resulting in death if not treated promptly.
Prognosis
The prognosis of hyperthermia or heat stroke is heavily dependent on the promptness and effectiveness of cooling measures initiated. The morbidity and mortality rates following hyperthermia or heat stroke are notably high and vary based on factors such as age, underlying health conditions, and peak body temperature reached. However, the duration of hyperthermia stands out as a crucial factor. While immediate and appropriate treatment can greatly increase survival rates post-heat stroke, the absence of such measures can result in mortality rates as high as 80%. Even among the 20% who survive, residual brain damage is common. Treatment may extend for weeks, during which body temperature remains elevated. Despite proper care, some individuals may still experience renal insufficiency. Previous episodes of heat stroke heighten the risk of future occurrences. Timely cooling is paramount in heat stroke management; delays can lead to severe complications, including kidney or liver damage, congestive heart failure or arrhythmias, coma, or death.
Treatment
The primary treatment for heat stroke is prompt and aggressive body cooling. This can be achieved through methods such as cold water immersion or evaporation, with the aim of rapidly lowering the core body temperature to below 39°C, ideally within the first hour. Additionally, supportive measures may be necessary to address breathing difficulties, hypotension, and seizures during the cooling process.