Highlights & Basics
- Generally associated with core temperatures >104°F (>40°C), though heat stroke can occur at lower core temperatures.
- Diagnosis rests on the observation of profound central nervous system dysfunction in the presence of hyperthermia.
- Medications may predispose patients to heat stroke (e.g., diuretics, antihypertensives).
- Early cooling reduces mortality and morbidity, and should be initiated as soon as possible.
- Evaporation and ice water immersion are both widely used as cooling methods.
Quick Reference
History & Exam
Key Factors
Other Factors
Diagnostics Tests
Treatment Options
Definition
Epidemiology
Etiology
Pathophysiology
Citations
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McDermott BP, Casa DJ, Ganio MS, et al. Acute whole-body cooling for exercise-induced hyperthermia: a systematic review. J Athl Train. 2009;44:84-93. [Abstract][Full Text]
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