What causes heat stroke?

Heat stroke is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures, which can overwhelm the body's ability to regulate its core temperature. When the body is exposed to high external temperatures for an extended period, especially in conjunction with strenuous physical activity, the internal mechanisms for heat dissipation, such as sweating, become ineffective. This leads to a dangerous rise in body temperature, which can result in serious physiological damage if not addressed promptly.

While excessive physical activity, dehydration, and high humidity levels can contribute to the risk of heat-related illnesses, they are often interrelated factors rather than direct causes on their own. For instance, high humidity can impair the evaporation of sweat, making it harder for the body to cool down, but the primary threat comes from the initial prolonged exposure to high temperatures that initiate this process. Thus, recognizing the role of sustained high temperatures is critical in understanding the underlying cause of heat stroke.