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Hyperthermic Emergency and Heat Stroke

Body temperature above 40 C and central nervous system dysfunction; rapid cooling is life-saving.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Acil Servis department. Book Appointment →

What is Hyperthermic Emergency and Heat Stroke?

Heat stroke is the most severe end of the heat-related illness spectrum, defined by core temperature above 40 degrees Celsius and central nervous system dysfunction.

Two clinical pictures are recognised: classic (passive, in elderly people during heat waves) and exertional (active, in young athletes and soldiers).

It causes multiorgan failure, rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney injury, coagulopathy and brain oedema; mortality reaches 30 to 70 percent without rapid cooling.

Symptoms

Core temperature above 40 degrees Celsius
Altered mental status, agitation, seizures and coma
Hot, dry skin (in classic form) or sweating (in exertional form)
Tachycardia, hypotension and tachypnoea
Nausea, vomiting and headache
Muscle pain and dark-coloured urine

Risk Factors

Heat waves and high humidity
Advanced age and chronic illness
Heavy exertion (military service, sports, construction work)
Anticholinergic, antihistaminic, beta-blocker and diuretic medications
Alcohol use and dehydration
Wearing dark, thick clothing

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Body temperature above 40 degrees Celsius and altered consciousness require an emergency call
  • Heat exhaustion progressing to confusion and seizures is heat stroke
  • Active cooling (cold water immersion, wet sheets) must be started during transfer
  • Even if temperature returns to normal, intensive care monitoring is required

Treatment Methods

01
Cold water immersion (target less than 39 degrees Celsius within thirty minutes)
02
Removal of wet clothing, ice packs to large vessel beds
03
Aggressive cooling with intravenous cold fluid resuscitation
04
Benzodiazepines for seizures and shivering
05
Treatment of rhabdomyolysis and electrolyte imbalances
06
Intensive care follow-up of coagulation, kidney and liver function

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Acil Servis department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Acil Servis Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.