Can heatstroke also cause fever?

Jul 02, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

After returning from the extreme heat, I feel a bit feverish. Can heatstroke cause fever?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Heatstroke may cause fever, with specific symptoms as follows: During heatstroke, due to dysfunction of the body's temperature regulation center, heat production increases while heat dissipation decreases, leading to elevated body temperature. Individuals with mild heatstroke typically have a body temperature around 38.5°C, while those with severe heatstroke may reach temperatures above 40°C, accompanied by serious symptoms such as coma, heat cramps, and respiratory or circulatory failure. Causes of fever due to heatstroke: 1. Imbalance in temperature regulation: In high-temperature environments, the function of the body's temperature regulation center is impaired, leading to an imbalance between heat production and heat dissipation. 2. Loss of water and electrolytes: Excessive sweating causes depletion of body fluids and electrolytes (such as sodium and potassium), further affecting temperature regulation. 3. Systemic stress response: During heatstroke, the body produces a stress response, releasing inflammatory mediators and cytokines that contribute to elevated body temperature. Heatstroke can cause fever, and the degree of fever is closely related to the severity of heatstroke. Prompt cooling measures should be taken after heatstroke occurs, along with fluid and electrolyte replacement, to prevent worsening of the condition.