About Us | Privacy | Site Map
May 20, 2013
Font Size
A
A
A
2
...

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke (cont.)

Medical Author:
Medical Editor:
Medical Editor:

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke Causes

Heat exhaustion is typically caused when people who are not well adjusted to heat exercise or work in a hot, humid environment.

  • At high temperatures, the body cools itself largely through evaporation of sweat.
  • When it is very humid, this mechanism does not work properly.
  • If the body generates additional heat through exercise or strenuous work, the situation is worsened.
  • The body loses a combination of fluids and salts (electrolytes).
  • When this is accompanied by an inadequate replacement of fluids, disturbances in the circulation may result that are similar to a form of shock.

Heat stroke may develop rapidly.

  • Medical conditions or medications that impair the body's ability to sweat may predispose people to this problem.
  • Heat stroke happens in the following two ways:
    • The classic form occurs in people whose cooling mechanisms are impaired.
    • The exertion form occurs in previously healthy people who are undergoing strenuous activity in a hot environment.
  • Infants, children under the age of 4, the overweight, and the elderly are more likely to have this problem, people taking antihistamines, diuretics (water pills), and certain types of medication for high blood pressure, heart disease, or depression.

Must Read Articles Related to Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

Dehydration (Adults)
Dehydration in Adults Dehydration occurs when the loss of body fluids (mostly water), exceeds the amount that is taken in. Causes of dehydration include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, di...learn more >>
Dehydration in Children
Dehydration in Children Dehydration in children can result from not drinking enough liquids, vomiting, diarrhea, or combination of these conditions. Causes of dehydration in children i...learn more >>
Heat Cramps
Heat Cramps Heat cramps occur when a person is working or exercising in a hot environment. The cause of heat cramps is not well known, however, those at risk are infants an...learn more >>

Viewer Comments & Reviews

Heat Exhaustion And Heat Stroke - Difference

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

How did the doctor distinguish between heat exhaustion and heat stroke?

Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

Please acknowledge your agreement




Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke »

Heat illness is a major cause of preventable morbidity worldwide, especially in regions characterized by high ambient temperatures.

Read More on Medscape Reference »


Medical Dictionary


Use Pill Finder Find it Now

Pill Identifier on RxList

  • quick, easy,
    pill identification

Find a Local Pharmacy

  • including 24 hour, pharmacies