Criteria
Clinical criteria[30][31]
Heat stroke
Profound central nervous system (CNS) alterations:
Heat stroke can present with a range of CNS abnormalities ranging in severity from confusion to coma. Typically, patients present with confusion and agitation. Ataxia and irritability may also be present.
Presence of such CNS disturbance is a key factor in distinguishing heat stroke from heat exhaustion.
Elevated core temperature >104°F (>40°C).
Not all patients with heat stroke have an elevated core temperature on presentation, as cooling in the field can decrease core temperature while the metabolic cascade causing systemic damage continues.
Heat exhaustion[1]
Mild CNS symptoms:
Dizziness, headache, thirst, weakness, and malaise.
Symptoms typically resolve within 2 hours.
Elevated core temperature 98.6°F to 104°F (37°C to 40°C).
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