Which term describes the physical stress caused by overheating?

The term that accurately describes the physical stress caused by overheating is hyperthermia. Hyperthermia refers to an elevated body temperature resulting from the body’s inability to regulate heat effectively. This condition can lead to various heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke, depending on the severity.

Heat exhaustion is a condition that can occur due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, leading to symptoms such as heavy sweating and a rapid pulse. While it's related, it is not the term that encompasses all forms of overheating stress.

Heatstroke is a more severe form of hyperthermia and occurs when the body's temperature regulation fails, leading to a potentially life-threatening situation. It usually manifests with a body temperature above 104°F (40°C), confusion, altered mental state, and loss of consciousness.

Heat cramps are painful muscle contractions that often occur during intense physical activity in hot weather, but they do not represent the broader concept of overheating stress.

Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why hyperthermia is the overarching term that encompasses all types of heat-related stress on the body.