What happens if heatstroke becomes severe?
Disease description:
Recently, my job has kept me in quite hot environments, and I've started experiencing heatstroke symptoms. However, I can't take time off work. I'd like to know what could happen if heatstroke becomes severe?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
When heatstroke becomes severe, it can lead to a series of serious symptoms and consequences.
The patient may progress to the stage of heat stroke,表现为 high fever, absence of sweating, and impaired consciousness. Body temperature may exceed 40°C, even reaching 41–42°C, posing a life-threatening condition. Severe heatstroke can cause multiple organ failure, as vulnerable organs such as the brain and kidneys become damaged due to decreased tolerance to dehydration and hypoxia. The mortality rate of severe heatstroke can be as high as 80%, and even with prompt treatment, the fatality rate remains around 10%. Therefore, immediate cooling measures should be taken after heatstroke occurs, along with fluid and electrolyte replacement. The patient's condition should be closely monitored, and medical attention should be sought promptly when necessary to prevent severe outcomes.
