What primarily causes heat stroke?

Heat stroke is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures, particularly when combined with factors such as dehydration, high humidity, or intense physical activity. When the body is exposed to high temperatures for an extended period, it can become overwhelmed by heat retention and is unable to regulate its temperature effectively. This can lead to a dangerous rise in body temperature, which can result in cellular damage, neurological complications, and potentially life-threatening conditions.

While intense physical activity and high humidity can contribute to heat-related illnesses and may exacerbate the risk of heat stroke, the root cause is the prolonged exposure to high temperatures themselves. Hydration is important for maintaining temperature regulation, but excessive hydration alone does not lead to heat stroke if adequate temperature control measures are in place. Thus, recognizing prolonged exposure to high temperatures as the primary cause of heat stroke is crucial for understanding its prevention and treatment.