Heatstroke

A life-threatening condition in which overexposure to heat coupled with a breakdown of the body’s heatregulating mechanisms cause the body to become dangerously overheated. Heatstroke is most commonly caused by prolonged, unaccustomed exposure to the sun in a hot climate. Strenuous activity, unsuitable clothing, overeating, and drinking too much alcohol are sometimes contributory factors. Heatstroke is often preceded by heat exhaustion, which consists of fatigue and profuse sweating. With the onset of heatstroke, the sweating diminishes and may stop entirely. The skin becomes hot and dry, breathing is shallow, and the pulse is rapid and weak. Body temperature rises dramatically and, without treatment, the victim may lose consciousness and even die. Heatstroke can be prevented by gradual acclimatization to hot conditions (see heat disorders). If heatstroke develops, emergency treatment is required. This consists of cooling the victim by wrapping him or her in a cold, wet sheet, fanning, sponging with water, and giving salt solution.