Which symptom is characteristic of heat stroke?

Heat stroke is a severe heat-related illness characterized by an elevated body temperature, typically above 104°F (40°C), due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, often accompanied by dehydration. One of the hallmark symptoms of heat stroke is the condition of the skin. In cases of heat stroke, the skin becomes hot, red, and dry because the body's normal thermoregulation, which includes sweating, has failed. In a healthy response to heat, the body would sweat to cool down; however, during heat stroke, the mechanisms for sweating become ineffective, leading to dry skin. This lack of moisture contributes to the risk of further complications, as the body cannot effectively cool itself.

Other symptoms of heat stroke can include confusion, altered mental state, rapid heartbeat, and unconsciousness, but the condition of the skin is a key indicator distinguishing heat stroke from other heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion, where heavy sweating and cool, clammy skin are still present.