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Table

Evaluation FindingHeat CrampsHeat SyncopeHeat ExhaustionHeat Stroke
Hydration StatusDehydratedDehydratedDehydratedDehydrated
Core Temperature*Within normal limits†Within normal limits102°–104°F (38.9°–40°C)Greater than 104°F (40°C)
Skin Color and TemperatureWithin normal limitsWithin normal limitsCool/clammyHot
PaleRed
PulseWithin normal limitsDecreasedRapid and weakIncreased
Blood PressureWithin normal limitsA sudden, imperceptible drop in blood pressure, which rapidly returns to normalLowHigh
RespirationWithin normal limitsWithin normal limitsHyperventilationRapid hyperventilation
Mental StateWithin normal limitsFatigueDizzinessDizziness
Possible fatigueDizzinessFatigueDrowsiness
FaintingSlight confusionConfusion/disorientation
Emotional instability
Violent behavior
Neuromuscular ChangesCramping in one or more musclesMuscle crampsWeakness
WeaknessDecerebrate posture
Gastrointestinal and Urinary ChangesIntestinal CrampingNausea
NauseaVomiting
VomitingDiarrhea
Diarrhea
Decreased Urinary output
Central Nervous SystemSyncopeHeadache
HeadacheUnconsciousness
Seizures
Coma
Other FindingsThirst“Tunnel vision” may be reportedThirstDilated pupils
Loss of appetite (anorexia)
Chills

SOURCE: Starkey, C, Brown, S, and Ryan, J: Examination of Orthopedic and Athletic Injuries, ed 3, FA Davis, Philadelphia, 2010.

*As determined by the rectal temperature

† Within normal limits for an exercising athlete