(hy·per·ther·mi·a) - The abnormally high temperature of the body due to heat exposure or illness and failed thermoregulation.
Introduction to Hyperthermia
Hot weather is the single most important element in most cases of hyperthermia, the name given to heat-related conditions. Heatstroke and heat exhaustion are the two most common forms of the condition and both are treatable, if caught early
Causes/Risk Factors of Hyperthermia
- Weather (98 degrees and above)
- Vigorous activity (overheating)
- Side effect of some drugs
- Illness resulting in high fever
- Poor circulation
- Inefficient sweat glands
- Lung and kidney disease
- High blood pressure
- General weakness
- Fever
- Young children left in cars on hot days
Effects
- Sweating
- Heat cramps: spasms in the arms, legs or abdomen
- Fatigue
The Dangers & Health Risks of Hyperthermia
Heatstroke - Fever above 104 degrees can lead to heatstroke. Diagnosis of heatstroke is made according to physical exam. Complications can include combativeness, confusion, strong and rapid pulse, bizarre behavior, dilirium and coma. Untreated, heatstroke can lead to death.
Malignant hypertension - A genetic disease resulting in high body temperature when exposed to general anethesia. Symptoms include muscle aches, bleeding, dark urine and quick rise of body temperature of 105 degrees and over.[2]
The Latest Medical Information on Hyperthermia Threads
On the positive side, hyperthermia is now being used to effectlvely treat cancer, by reducing the number of radiation treatments usually needed in cancer therapy. For more on this subject, go here.Morbidity Rate
