A core temperature over 102 F indicates which condition?

• A. Heat stroke
• B. Dehydration
• C. Heat exhaustion
• D. Hyponatremia

Answer: (C)

When core temperature rises above about 102 F during heat exposure, it points to heat-related illness at a level that's more than simple dehydration but not heat stroke. Heat stroke is defined by a core temperature around 104 F (40 C) or higher and typically includes central nervous system dysfunction. So a temperature just over 102 F fits heat exhaustion more closely, especially if fatigue, dizziness, weakness, and fluid loss are present. Hyponatremia is an electrolyte issue and isn’t determined by a specific fever-level temperature, and dehydration alone doesn’t specify the exact temperature range. In heat exhaustion, the focus is on cooling, resting, and rehydrating, with monitoring for any worsening symptoms or signs of progression to heat stroke.