Which condition requires immediate medical attention due to excessive body heat?

Heatstroke is a severe condition that occurs when the body overheats, typically due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures or vigorous exercise in hot conditions. It is characterized by a body temperature that exceeds 104°F (40°C) and can lead to serious complications or death if not treated immediately.

The symptoms of heatstroke can include confusion, altered mental state, rapid pulse, and hot, dry skin (though sweating may occur in some cases). The body's heat regulation system has failed, and immediate medical attention is critical to prevent damage to the brain and internal organs. Treatment typically involves cooling the person down quickly and providing supportive care.

In contrast, frostbite and hypothermia involve the body being excessively cold, while heat exhaustion, while a serious heat-related condition, usually does not require as urgent medical intervention as heatstroke. Heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke if not addressed, but it does not pose the same immediate life-threatening risk.