hypertermie

Hyperthermia is a condition where the body produces or absorbs more heat than it can dissipate, leading to an abnormally high body temperature. This can range from mild elevations to life-threatening levels. Causes of hyperthermia can be external, such as prolonged exposure to high environmental temperatures (heat stroke) or immersion in hot water. It can also be internal, resulting from conditions that increase heat production, like strenuous exercise, fever, certain medical conditions such as thyrotoxicosis, or adverse reactions to medications or anesthesia.

Symptoms of hyperthermia vary depending on the severity. Mild cases might present with fatigue, dizziness, and muscle cramps. More severe forms, like heat exhaustion, can include heavy sweating, nausea, vomiting, headache, and rapid pulse. The most severe form, heat stroke, is a medical emergency characterized by a core body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher, along with altered mental status (confusion, delirium, coma) and cessation of sweating.

Treatment for hyperthermia focuses on rapidly cooling the body. This can involve moving the individual to a cooler environment, removing excess clothing, applying cool cloths or ice packs to the skin, and encouraging fluid intake for mild cases. Severe cases require immediate medical attention and aggressive cooling methods such as immersion in cold water, intravenous fluid resuscitation, and in some instances, medications to control shivering. Prevention is key and involves avoiding extreme heat, staying hydrated, and acclimatizing to hot environments.