What are the causes of heatstroke?

Under normal circumstances, heatstroke is mainly caused by high environmental temperatures, intense physical activity, obesity, dehydration, and endocarditis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. High Environmental Temperature

In high-temperature environments, sweat evaporation slows down, making it difficult for the body to dissipate heat effectively, leading to increased body temperature. Additionally, high humidity hinders sweat evaporation, further reducing cooling efficiency and potentially causing heatstroke. Immediately move out of the hot environment and rest in a cool, shaded area. Replenish fluids with cool drinks and electrolyte solutions such as oral rehydration salts. In severe cases, emergency medical care is required.

2. Intense Physical Activity

During vigorous exercise, muscle activity generates large amounts of heat. If the surrounding environment is both hot and humid, sweat evaporation is impaired, resulting in heat accumulation and a rapid rise in body temperature, which may lead to heatstroke. It is advised to stop exercising immediately, move quickly to a cool, well-ventilated area to rest, and replenish water and electrolytes, such as with sports drinks.

3. Obesity

Individuals with obesity have a thicker layer of subcutaneous fat, which impairs heat dissipation. Combined with a higher metabolic rate and increased heat production, they are more prone to heatstroke. Weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight are recommended, along with avoiding prolonged physical activity in hot environments. In case of heatstroke, rapid cooling measures such as wiping the body with cold water should be applied.

4. Dehydration

Dehydration may result from insufficient fluid intake, electrolyte loss, diarrhea, vomiting, or high fever. In a dehydrated state, blood viscosity increases, impairing circulation and heat dissipation, thereby increasing the risk of heatstroke. Symptoms may include thirst and dry skin. Under the supervision of a healthcare professional, medications such as furosemide tablets, Huoxiang Zhengqi water, or lactic acid bacteria tablets may be used for treatment.

5. Endocarditis

Endocarditis is primarily caused by infections from pathogens such as bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Patients often suffer impaired cardiac pumping function and poor circulation, which affects the dilation and constriction of skin microvessels, reduces heat dissipation, disrupts thermoregulation, and may lead to heatstroke. Additional symptoms may include chest pain and palpitations. Under the guidance of a physician, medications such as nitroglycerin tablets, enteric-coated aspirin tablets, or gentamicin sulfate capsules may be prescribed for treatment.

If body temperature rises significantly, ice packs can be placed on major arteries such as the head, neck, and armpits to assist cooling. However, direct and prolonged contact with the skin should be avoided to prevent frostbite.