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How to Avoid and Treat Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

By Sharon O'Brien, About.com

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What is Heat Stroke?

The CDC reports that heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness.

Heat stroke occurs when the body is exposed to an excessive amount of heat and becomes unable dissipate the heat through sweating.

When heat stroke happens, the body’s temperature rises rapidly, the body loses its ability to sweat, and it is unable to cool down.

Body temperature can rise to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes, and at 106°F brain death begins.

If emergency treatment is not provided, heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability in humans and animals.

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