Heat stroke or fever? The rise in temperature to the threshold of 38°C is not necessarily a sign of a pathology. In case of strong heat, it can be a question of hyperthermia. Definition and mechanisms.
By definition, hyperthermia is a body temperature higher than normal which is generally between 37° and 37.5°. Dr. Marine Crest-Guilluy, general practitioner specifies that “Unlike fever, which is a defense mechanism against aggression such as infection, hyperthermia is a sign of self-regulation of body temperature in the face of heat, physical exertion”.
“From the threshold of 38° we can speak of hyperthermia, beyond 38.5° the specialists speak of fever” details Dr. Crest-Guilluy.
“The symptoms will depend on each person and on the so-called “normal” temperature of the person. The greater the difference between the basal body temperature and hyperthermia, the more symptoms there may be” warns the specialist. The different clinical signs hyperthermia:
- A feeling hot or cold which varies from person to person.
- A more perspiration.
- Of the chills.
- Muscle pain.
- THE headache.
- There skin that turns red.
Hyperthermia may be due to too much or too long exposure to heat or too intense physical effort: we also speak of “heatstroke”. Some medications can also cause hyperthermia.
“Thanks to its thermoregulation systemthe body knows how to regulate itself and lower the temperature through the skin. If it is necessary to to discover yourself to increase the exchanges between the skin and the outside, it is not recommended to immerse yourself in a cold bath : Dropping the temperature too quickly can cause problems. A good hydration is essential to help the body’s temperature regulation process” explains our interlocutor. Finally, the resting with a cessation of effort is recommended. If other signs are associated, do not hesitate to consult a doctor.
“A hyperthermic baby can become red, be hot or coldaccording to its way of regulating” explains Dr. Crest-Guilly. “He may also change his usual behavior, seem more tired or grumpy. The first thing to do is to take off his clothes, leave him in a diaper and give him something to drink. Take your temperature and keep it under surveillance. A rise in temperature beyond 38 degrees in an infant under three months of age should be investigated. visit to the general practitioner or the pediatrician.”
In healthy people, a hyperthermia that lasts longer than 24 to 48 hours requires consultation to a general practitioner. On the other hand “if there are comorbidities, if the adult suffers from other pathologies, the consultation is necessary. A person undergoing chemotherapy, whose immune system is lowered, must go to the hospital immediately” warn the doctor.
Thanks to Dr Marine Crest-Guilly, general practitioner.