heat stroke

n.
A severe condition caused by impairment of the body's temperature-regulating abilities, resulting from prolonged exposure to excessive heat and characterized by cessation of sweating, severe headache, high fever, hot dry skin, and in serious cases collapse and coma.

A potentially fatal condition caused by overexposure to heat. Heat stroke is characterized by high body core temperature and hot, dry skin, usually flushed. Sufferers show signs of mental confusion and loss of muscular coordination. They may collapse into unconsciousness. There is an urgent need to reduce the body temperature rapidly by loosening clothing, fanning, and tepid sponging. However, iced fluids and iced baths should not be used because they may constrict blood vessels, reducing the blood supply to the skin and the means by which heat can escape. Medical attention is necessary; hospitalization may be required as there is a danger of kidney failure. During June 1995, there was an unprecedented heat wave in Chicago when more than 400 fatalities were attributed to very high temperatures and humidities.

A potentially fatal condition caused by prolonged overheating, which may result from exercising in a hot environment or exercising in clothes that restrict the elimination of heat. Heat stroke is characterized by a high body core temperature (above 40.5 °C or 105°F), and hot, dry skin which is usually flushed. Heat stroke patients show signs of mental confusion and loss of motor control, and may collapse into unconsciousness. The first priority of treatment is to lower the core temperature back to normal. This can be achieved by loosening clothing, fanning, and sponging with tepid water. However, iced fluids and iced baths should not be used because they may constrict blood vessels in the skin and reduce heat loss. Expert medical attention is necessary and hospitalization may be required as there is a danger of renal failure.

n.

A severe condition caused by impairment of the body's temperature-regulating abilities, resulting from prolonged exposure to excessive heat and characterized by cessation of sweating, severe headache, high fever, hot dry skin, and, in serious cases, collapse and coma.