Identification

A heat stroke causes an abnormally high body temperature, and may be accompanied by neurological symptoms. A heat stroke may also be accompanied by severe physical symptoms such as dehydration or muscle cramps.

Causes

The most common causes of a heat stroke are being outdoors in the extreme heat, high humidity, and physical exertion in the heat. Dehydration is another cause of heat stroke, and may occur when losing bodily fluids (through sweat) more quickly than they can be replaced.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of a heat stroke are the absence of sweating, rapid pulse, difficulty breathing, high body temperature, confusion, behavior changes, agitation and disorientation. Severe symptoms of this condition may include seizures and coma. Heat exhaustion may have similar symptoms, however, they are much less severe than those of heat stroke.

Prevention/Solution

In order to prevent a heat stroke, it is important to avoid physical activities in the extreme heat, drink plenty of fluids, avoid alcohol, avoid caffeine and wear light colored clothing.

Considerations

A heat stroke has much more severe symptoms than heat exhaustion. A heat stroke can cause organ damage or death if treatment is not sought immediately.

Source:

Medicine Net: Heat Stroke

University of Maryland Medical Center: Dehydration And Heat Stroke