From the Guidelines
Hyperthermia can cause permanent damage, particularly in the context of acute ischemic stroke, where it is associated with poor neurological outcome and increased short-term mortality. The relationship between hyperthermia and stroke outcome is well-established, with studies showing that even a small increase in body temperature can lead to poorer patient outcomes 1. For example, a study found that hyperthermia is associated with a 2-fold increase in short-term mortality in patients with acute stroke 1.
Key Points to Consider
- Hyperthermia is a common complication in patients with acute ischemic stroke, occurring in approximately one third of patients within the first hours after stroke onset 1.
- The source of hyperthermia should be determined, as it may be secondary to a cause of stroke or represent a complication such as pneumonia, urinary tract infection (UTI), or sepsis 1.
- Maintenance of normothermia or lowering of an acutely elevated body temperature has been hypothesized to improve the prognosis of patients with stroke, with measures including both pharmacological and mechanical interventions 1.
- Acetaminophen has been shown to be modestly successful in achieving normothermia, but its effects may not have a robust clinical impact 1.
Management of Hyperthermia
- Immediate treatment of the source of the fever is crucial to reduce its duration 1.
- Acetaminophen can be used to maintain normothermia, with a daily dosage of 6000 mg potentially having a beneficial effect in lowering body temperature 1.
- Other measures such as indwelling catheter temperature control systems or surface cooling systems can also be used to rapidly induce cooling 1.
Important Considerations
- The underlying cause of the fever, rather than the fever itself, is often responsible for any potential long-term effects.
- Children are generally more susceptible to fever-related complications than adults.
- Brain damage may occur at temperatures above 107.6°F (42°C), highlighting the importance of prompt and effective management of hyperthermia.
From the Research
Hyperthermia and Permanent Damage
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that hyperthermia (elevated body temperature) can cause permanent damage 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies focus on the management of fever, its role in infection, and the effects of treating fever with medication and physical cooling methods.
- Some studies suggest that fever is a natural response to infection and can be beneficial in fighting off pathogens 5, 6.
- However, high body temperatures can be uncomfortable and may lead to other complications, such as dehydration and discomfort in children 3, 4.
- The use of antipyretic medication and physical cooling methods to reduce fever is a common practice, but its effectiveness and potential risks are still being debated 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.