Which condition is characterized by core temperature above 105°F, CNS dysfunction, hot/flushed skin, minimal sweating?

• A. Exertional Heat Exhaustion
• B. Heat Rash
• C. Heat Cramps
• D. Exertional Heatstroke

Answer: (D)

Exertional heatstroke is indicated by a core temperature well over 105°F with central nervous system dysfunction, such as confusion, agitation, seizures, or collapse, and skin that is hot and flushed with little to no sweating. This combination shows that the body's cooling mechanisms have failed and the brain is affected, which makes it a medical emergency.

Other heat-related conditions don’t present with this same pattern. For example, heat exhaustion involves fatigue, dizziness, and often sweating and cool, moist skin with a lower body temperature, reflecting a less severe disruption of thermoregulation. Heat cramps are muscle cramps related to electrolyte loss and typically do not feature high core temperatures or CNS changes. Heat rash is a superficial skin irritation without systemic heat illness or CNS involvement.

Because of the dangerous level of hyperthermia and CNS signs, immediate rapid cooling and medical attention are essential.