ArticlesFatal Exertional Heat Stroke: A Case Series
Section snippets
Methods
During the years 1992 through 2002, the Heller Institute was informed of every suspected case of heat stroke in the IDF. In each case, a preliminary investigation to establish the diagnosis and examine the circumstances leading to the heat stroke illness was initiated. Diagnosis was confirmed in 134 cases; six of these cases were fatal. The diagnosis of EHS was based on a composite picture including extreme body core temperature elevations, central nervous system disturbances, and hematologic
Discussion
Exertional heat stroke is a threat to all who engage in vigorous physical training. It is particularly of concern in military situations, where the combination of heavy exertion coupled with overmotivation and peer pressure may prove to be detrimental. The classic picture of the fatal EHS cases in our study consists of a highly motivated individual who participates in badly organized military training and exerts himself beyond his capability. Furthermore, in some of the cases, once EHS
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