Teenager’s Near-Fatal Heat Stroke During Exercise: A Warning for Summer

Summer is a time for fun and outdoor activities, but it’s crucial to remember the dangers of extreme heat, especially during strenuous exercise. This case study highlights the very real risks and underscores the importance of vigilance and preventative measures.

A Close Call

A healthy teenager, while running with his older brother near their home, collapsed due to exertional heat stroke. While the ambient temperature was around 20°C (68°F), the teenager had recently returned from a family vacation in a much hotter climate (nearly 40°C or 104°F). This, combined with the physical exertion of running, proved a dangerous combination. He experienced sudden dizziness and confusion before losing consciousness. His quick-thinking brother immediately contacted emergency services, using a location-sharing app to pinpoint their exact location, enabling swift rescue and transport to the nearest hospital.

The Dangers of Exertional Heat Stroke

The hospital diagnosed the teenager with exertional heat stroke, a severe condition resulting from the body’s inability to adequately dissipate heat during intense physical activity. This leads to a dangerously rapid rise in core body temperature (above 40°C or 104°F), causing damage to internal organs. In this case, the teenager’s liver and kidney function were significantly impaired. His condition became so critical that transfer to a children’s hospital was necessary, with the possibility of a liver transplant being considered. Fortunately, his liver function gradually recovered, and he was discharged after four days. Doctors later attributed the severity of his condition, despite him consuming 1.5 liters of water during his run, to dehydration from a recent bout of gastrointestinal illness.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Heat stroke is the most serious form of heat illness, potentially resulting in organ failure and even death. It’s vital to recognize the warning signs:

• Fatigue
• High fever
• Excessive sweating (initially)
• Intense thirst
• Weakness
• Rapid breathing and heart rate
• Headache
• Nausea
• Pale and clammy skin (initially, this can change)
• Absence of sweating and hot, dry skin (in later stages)
• Seizures or convulsions
• Loss of consciousness

If you experience any of these symptoms, immediately seek a cool environment, rest, and rehydrate. If symptoms don’t improve within 30 minutes, or if you develop a high fever (40°C or 104°F or higher), rapid pulse and breathing, seizures, loss of consciousness, or hot, dry skin, call emergency medical services immediately.

Prevention and First Aid

Preventing heat stroke requires careful planning and attention to your body’s signals. Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day, wear appropriate clothing, and listen to your body. If you suspect someone is experiencing heat stroke:

• Move them to a cool place.
• Loosen their clothing.
• Apply cool, damp cloths or use a fan to help lower their body temperature.
• If ice packs are available, place them on the neck, armpits, and groin.
• Do not give fluids to an unconscious person.

This near-tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of heat stroke, even in seemingly moderate temperatures. Prioritizing safety and taking preventative measures is crucial to enjoying summer activities without risking serious health consequences.