Heat Stroke Risk: Who Is Most Vulnerable?
Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency that can affect anyone, but certain groups face higher risk:
High-Risk Populations
- Older adults: Impaired thermoregulation.
- Children: Less efficient temperature control.
- Chronic conditions: Heart disease, diabetes, obesity.
- Medication effects: Diuretics, beta-blockers, anticholinergics, psychotropics can impair heat dissipation.
- Outdoor workers/athletes: Prolonged heat exposure.
Environmental & Behavioral Risk Factors
- High temperature, low humidity
- Dehydration
- Strenuous activity in heat
- Alcohol consumption
- Stimulant drug use (amphetamines, cocaine)
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately if suspected.
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