Heat Stroke is an acute medical emergency caused by failure of the heat-regulating mechanisms of the body. It usually occurs during extended heat waves, especially when they are accompanied by high humidity. People at risk are those not acclimatized to heat, those who are elderly or very young, those unable to care for themselves, those with chronic and debilitating diseases, and those taking certain medication (eg. Tranquilizers, anticholinergics, diuretics and beta-blocking agents). Excertional heat stroke occurs in healthy individuals during sports or work activities, ex. exercising in strong heat and humidity. Hyperthermia results because of inadequate heat loss. This type of heat stroke can also cause death.
