HEATSTROKE IN SPORTS: RISK FACTORS AND FIRST AID

Abstract

Heatstroke is one of the most life-threatening emergencies in sports medicine
and remains a leading cause of preventable death among athletes. It is defined as a
core body temperature exceeding 40 °C (104 °F) accompanied by central nervous
system dysfunction, including confusion, loss of coordination, or unconsciousness.
Unlike heat exhaustion, heatstroke represents a failure of thermoregulatory
homeostasis and demands immediate intervention. With increasing global
temperatures and rising participation in endurance and team sports, the incidence of
exertional heatstroke (EHS) continues to grow, making its prevention and
management a priority for sports medicine professionals, coaches, and athletes alike.