Abstract
BACKGROUND: Heatstroke, characterized by a significant rise in body temperature and central nervous system dysfunction, poses a severe health risk, particularly during heatwaves. AIM: This study aims to describe the epidemiological and clinical profile of heatstroke patients admitted to our centre during a heatwave period. RESULTS: A total of nine cases were recorded during the study period. All patients were male, aged between 35 and 63 years, with the majority working in occupations involving direct exposure to sunlight. The majority of the patients presented with seizures and altered sensorium, with temperatures exceeding 105°F in most cases. Blood investigations revealed leukocytosis, thrombocytopenia, and multi-organ dysfunction. Creatine phosphokinase (CPK) levels were invariably high in all patients, and arterial blood gas analysis revealed high-anion-gap metabolic acidosis (HAGMA). Treatment measures given include cooling measures, inotropes, and supportive care. The case fatality rate was 55%, highlighting the severity of the cases. CONCLUSIONS: As global temperatures rise and heatwaves become more frequent due to climate change, heatstroke is progressively emerging as a major public health issue. Risk factors such as occupational sun exposure, comorbidities, and extreme temperatures contribute to heatstroke incidence and severity. Urgent public health strategies are needed to mitigate heatwave impacts and protect vulnerable populations. Further research into novel treatment approaches may improve outcomes for heatstroke patients.