Hyperthermia

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Hyperthermia in its advanced state referred to as heat stroke or sunstroke, is an acute condition which occurs when the body produces or absorbs more heat than it can dissipate. It is usually due to excessive exposure to heat. The heat-regulating mechanisms of the body eventually become overwhelmed and are unable to effectively deal with the heat, and body temperature climbs uncontrollably. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention.

Hyperthermia can be created artificially by drugs or medical devices. In these instances it may be used to treat cancer and other conditions. Malignant hyperthermia is a rare complication of some types of general anesthesia.

Hyperthermia is the opposite of hypothermia.

Template:WH Template:WS

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Please help WikiDoc by adding more content here. It’s easy! Click here to learn about editing.

Body temperatures above 40°C (104 °F) are life-threatening. This compares to normal body temperature of 36-37°C (97-98°F). At 41°C (106 °F), brain death begins, and at 45°C (113°F) death is nearly certain. Internal temperatures above 50°C (122°F) will cause rigidity in the muscles and certain, immediate death.

Heat stroke may come on suddenly, but usually follows a less-threatening condition commonly referred to as heat exhaustion or heat prostration.

Template:WH Template:WS

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Kiran Singh, M.D. [2]

Life threatning causes of hyperthermia include diabetic ketoacidosis, heat stroke, malignant hyperthermia, and septic shock. Other common causes of hyperthermia are amphetamine, cocaine, monoamine oxidase inhibitors and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

• Diabetic ketoacidosis
• Heat stroke
• Malignant hyperthermia
• Neonatal sepsis
• Septic shock

• Amphetamine
• Cocaine
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
• Tricyclic antidepressants

Please help WikiDoc by adding content here. It’s easy! Click here to learn about editing.

Template:WH Template:WS

Please help WikiDoc by adding content here. It’s easy! Click here to learn about editing.

Template:WH Template:WS

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Please help WikiDoc by adding more content here. It’s easy! Click here to learn about editing.

While anyone can be affected by hyperthermia, some populations are especially susceptible to heat illness and injury. As noted by Joseph Rampulla in the The Health Care of Homeless Persons: Heat illness most seriously affects the poor, urban-dwellers, young children, those with chronic physical and mental illnesses, substance abusers, the elderly, and people who engage in excessive physical activity under harsh conditions.

Template:WH Template:WS

Please help WikiDoc by adding content here. It’s easy! Click here to learn about editing.

Template:WH Template:WS