Can heatstroke cause seizures?
Nov 21, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Heatstroke may or may not cause seizures. Mild heatstroke does not cause seizures, but leads to symptoms such as hot skin, flushed face, and excessive sweating. Severe heatstroke can cause heat cramps, resulting in painful muscle spasms and seizures during or after physical activity. When heatstroke progresses to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, it may lead to orthostatic hypotension and tachycardia, which can trigger seizures.
Heatstroke may or may not cause seizures, depending on the severity of the condition.
1. Does not cause seizures
If the heatstroke is mild, seizures typically do not occur. It usually only causes symptoms such as hot skin, flushed face, and excessive sweating. Some patients may also experience pallor, decreased blood pressure, cold and clammy extremities, and a body temperature above 38°C.
2. Causes seizures
In cases of severe heatstroke, heat cramps may develop, typically causing painful muscle spasms during or after physical activity. These commonly affect the muscle groups in the back of the lower limbs and the abdomen, leading to seizure-like manifestations. Additionally, if heatstroke is more severe and progresses to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, patients may exhibit profuse sweating, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and high fever. In serious cases, complications such as orthostatic hypotension, fainting, or tachycardia may arise, which can subsequently lead to seizures.
