Rectal temperature of approximately 40.6 C (105 F) or greater in a person with a history of exposure to external increased temperature and humidity with accompanying neurologic disturbance, usually in the form of altered mental status. Lack of sweating is usual but not a necessary criterion. Can prove fatal in a short time if not treated. This condition usually develops over a period of hours, and is common in the elderly.
There is also an exertional heat stroke that occurs in the young and healthy persons and follows exercising in hot humid conditions
Treatment
Rapid cooling is very important to save the patient’s life. Immersion in ice water, with vigorous massage of skin to counteract cutaneous vasoconstriction which would prevent heat loss. Evaporative cooling with water spray while exposing to forced air stream form an electric fn, ice packs and massage are the other measures to be adopted.
Cooling efforts should cease when rectal temperature reaches 38.5 C (102.3 F)
Other measures would include IV D/S, active airways management if required, cardiac monitoring, intra-gastric tube placement if required
