Which of the following is a key symptom of heat stroke?

A key symptom of heat stroke is the presence of a weak and rapid pulse or respirations. Heat stroke occurs when the body's thermoregulation fails, typically due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, and can lead to a body temperature exceeding 104°F (40°C). As the body overheats, the cardiovascular system becomes stressed, often manifesting as a weak pulse and rapid breathing as the body attempts to cool itself and maintain oxygen delivery to vital organs.

In contrast to other heat-related illnesses, individuals experiencing heat stroke do not sweat excessively; rather, they often exhibit dry skin as the body's ability to sweat becomes impaired. Additionally, cold clammy skin is more indicative of heat exhaustion rather than heat stroke. Numbness is not typically associated with heat stroke either, as it relates more to neural complications or different medical conditions. Understanding these symptoms helps in the timely recognition and management of heat stroke, which is crucial for effective treatment and recovery.