Common Factors Contributing to Heat Disorders

Condition

Examples

Excess heat input

Certain disorders

Hyperthyroidism

Infections

Malignant hyperthermia

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Seizures

Serotonin syndrome

High environmental temperatures

Increasing global temperatures

Stimulant drugs

Amphetamines

Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, or Ecstasy)

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors

Phencyclidine (PCP)

Strenuous exertion

Exercise

Physical labor

Withdrawal from certain drugs

Alcohol

Opioids

Impaired cooling

Heavy clothing

Protective gear for workers and athletes (eg, football pads)

High environmental temperatures

High humidity

Obesity and/or poor cardiovascular fitness

Extremes of age

Impaired sweating*

Anticholinergic medications

Antihistamines

Antiparkinsonian drugs

Phenothiazines

Cystic fibrosis

Skin disorders

Burn scars, extensive

Eczema, extensive

Heat rash

Psoriasis, extensive

Systemic sclerosis

* Impaired sweating is a cause of impaired cooling.