- Hyperthermia is the most severe of the heat-related illnesses. It is often referred to as heat stroke. Hyperthermia occurs when you have been exposed to heat for a period of time and your body temperature rises to more than 103 degrees Fahrenheit.
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The hypothalamus in the brain helps the body maintain a normal temperature by balancing heat production and heat loss. This is not difficult for the hypothalamus to do when the temperature of the surrounding environment is less than your body's temperature.
During hot weather or in a hot environment, the body works to regulate its internal temperature by producing perspiration, which cools the body as the perspiration evaporates. A humid environment lessens the evaporation rate. When the perspiration doesn't evaporate effectively, or if there is no perspiration present, there is a likelihood for a heat-related illness. -
Children under 5 years of age and older adults are at the greatest risk for heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and hyperthermia.
People with heart conditions and high blood pressure may be affected more by the heat than others.
Genetic factors are thought to play a part in how well your body is able to withstand high temperatures. If, for example, your parents or grandparents have had difficulty with heat-related illnesses, that tendency may have been passed on to you.
Some medications such as beta-blockers, diuretics, anti-psychotics and vasoconstrictors may make you more prone to hyperthermia. -
These conditions may put you at increased risk of developing a heat-related illness, such as hyperthermia:
Strenuous exercise or physical activity during hot weather can bring on heat-related illnesses.
Alcohol use and drug use can affect your body's ability to regulate its temperature.
Dehydration can have an effect even in people who drink a normal amount of fluids. During periods when you are perspiring heavily, you can quickly lose fluids.
Obesity
If you already have an illness/fever, you are more prone to the effects of heat.
Wearing heavy clothing or equipment such as sports equipment in hot weather.
Having had a heat-related illness in the past.
Not being acclimated to heat/humidity. - Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke (hyperthermia) if left untreated, so it is important to be able to recognize the symptoms of heat exhaustion and take appropriate action.
- The warning signs of heat exhaustion include muscle cramps, weakness, headache, heavy perspiring, paleness, nausea and/or vomiting, dizziness, fainting, skin may be cool and clammy, "pulse may be quick and weak, breathing may be quick and shallow" (Cleveland Clinic).
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It's vital that you find a way to cool yourself down---without overdoing it, such as immersing yourself in ice-cold water.
Whatever activity you are doing should be stopped. Go to a cool place such as an air-conditioned room or in shade. Lie or sit with your feet elevated. If you are wearing extra clothing such as sports equipment, remove it. Drink some cool, non-alcholic liquid. Apply a cool cloth or towel to your skin.
