Which of the following describes heat stroke symptoms?

• A. Persistent confusion, rapid heart rate
• B. Heavy sweating with cool skin
• C. Severe chest pain
• D. Sudden collapse and unconsciousness, flushed hot skin, reduced sweating, shallow breathing, increased heart rate; death can occur if core temperature exceeds 107 F

Answer: (D)

Heat stroke is a life-threatening heat illness where the body's cooling mechanism fails and the central nervous system is overwhelmed, causing a dangerously high core temperature. The description that includes sudden collapse or unconsciousness, flushed hot skin, little to no sweating, shallow breathing, and a rapid heart rate indicates this severe state. When core temperature climbs toward the 107°F range, the risk of death rises, which is why this combination of symptoms is used to identify heat stroke. This differs from heat exhaustion, which typically presents with heavy sweating and cool, clammy skin rather than hot, dry skin and CNS impairment. In a suspected heat stroke, it’s a medical emergency: call for help, move the person to a cooler environment, remove excess clothing, and begin rapid cooling while awaiting responders.