Heat stroke is typically characterized by which of the following?

• A. 104 degrees Fahrenheit with little sweating
• B. 102 degrees with heavy sweating
• C. Flushed skin with rapid breathing
• D. Pale skin with dizziness

Answer: (A)

Heat stroke happens when the body's cooling system fails, causing a dangerously high core temperature and central nervous system dysfunction. A defining feature is a very high body temperature (often at or above 104°F) with little or no sweating, and skin that may feel hot and dry. That combination exactly matches the option describing 104°F with little sweating, making it the best choice. The other scenarios point to heat exhaustion or milder heat stress—where sweating is still occurring and the temperature isn’t as high, or they show signs that aren’t specific to heat stroke (like rapid breathing or pale, dizzy skin). Remember, heat stroke is a medical emergency requiring rapid cooling and urgent care.