Heatstroke
• Definition
· Heatstroke is the condition of confusion with a core body temperature greater than 104F and the absence of sweating.
• Overview
· Heatstroke results from the failure of the brain (hypothalamus) to regulate body temperature.
· Heatstroke is more common in the elderly and the very young.
· Heatstroke can be exacerbated by:
· hot environments
· drugs such as Benedryl, Ditropan, Detrol
• Symptoms
· Heatstroke symptoms include:
· confusion
· dizziness
· nausea and vomiting
· hot dry skin
• Complications
· organ failure
· death
• Treatment
· Rapidly reducing core body temperature
Posted on September 24, 2008
