Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What is a significant characteristic of heat stroke compared to heat exhaustion?

1. Increased sweating

2. No sweating

3. Lower body temperature

4. Increased heart rate

The correct answer is: No sweating

Heat stroke is a severe form of heat illness that occurs when the body becomes unable to regulate its temperature, leading to a core body temperature that can rise to dangerous levels. One significant characteristic that distinguishes heat stroke from heat exhaustion is the absence of sweating. In heat exhaustion, the body still retains its ability to sweat, which is a mechanism to cool itself down. However, as heat stroke progresses, the body's temperature-regulating mechanisms fail, and sweating may stop entirely. This cessation of sweating can result in the skin feeling hot and dry, which is a critical indicator of this life-threatening condition. The other characteristics associated with heat stroke include an elevated body temperature, typically above 104°F (40°C), and an increased heart rate, which signifies the body's struggle to maintain adequate circulation and oxygen delivery. However, the absence of sweating serves to highlight the severity of heat stroke and the breakdown of the body’s temperature control mechanisms.