Heatstroke is a condition in which the body becomes overheated in a relatively short space of time. This can be a life-threatening condition, requiring urgent medical attention

Heat stroke is a form of hyperthermia (abnormally elevated body temperature) with accompanying physical and neurological symptoms. The body normally generates heat as a result of metabolism, and the body is usually able to dissipate the heat by either radiation of heat through the skin or by evaporation of sweat. However, in extreme heat, high humidity, or vigorous exertion under the sun, the body may not be able to dissipate the heat and the body temperature rises, sometimes up to 106 degrees Fahrenheit or higher..

Classic heatstroke (also called sunstroke: a little misleading because the condition can arise without the direct effect of the sun) when, typically, the skin is flushed, red and dry.

Heatstroke caused by exertion, which often occurs in conjunction with pronounced physical exertion, eg sports activity.

 

 

Causes

 

Ever, in which the body's mechanism for regulating temperature is functioning and set at a higher level. The patient is, typically, flushed and bathed in sweat.

Primary hyperthermia (for instance, heatstroke), where temperature regulation is either partially or totally out of action.

 

Primary hyperthermia (for instance, heatstroke), where temperature regulation is either partially or totally out of action.

 

 

 

Symptoms

Symptoms of heat stroke can sometimes mimic those of heart attack or other conditions. Sometimes a person experiences symptoms of heat exhaustion before progressing to heat strokes.

High body temperature

The absence of sweating, with hot red or flushed dry skin

Rapid pulse

Difficulty breathing

Strange behavior

Vomiting - sometimes with blood

Diarrhea

Shock

Coma

Tests and diagnosis

There are no specific tests that can diagnose heat stroke. However the description of symptoms is typical. General blood tests may sometimes show signs of dehydration. Measuring the body temperature by thermometer is important.

A blood test to check for low blood sodium or potassium and the content of gases in your blood to see if there's been any damage to your central nervous system

A urine test to check the color of your urine, because it's usually darker if you have a heat-related condition, and to assess your kidney function, which can be affected by heatstroke

 

 

Treatment

 

The patient is given ice water baths so as to bring down the body temperature. The patient's clothes have to be loosened so as to allow active air circulation. The body and the limbs have to be massaged in order to improve the blood circulation within the body.

Drugs to treat epileptic fits are administered, if the need arises.

Prognosis is good in the face of prompt therapy. The risk factors are sudden onset of very high fever and shock.

Read About bodybuilding supplements. Also read about bodybuilding tips and Weight Lifting Exercises