What body temperature defines hyperthermia?

Hyperthermia is defined as an elevated body temperature due to the body's inability to dissipate heat effectively, leading to dangerous health conditions. The threshold commonly recognized in clinical settings for hyperthermia is a body temperature above 100.4°F. This value is significant because it indicates that the body is reaching a level of heat accumulation that can have physiological consequences.

Temperatures above this level can impair the body's processes, potentially leading to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Therefore, identifying hyperthermia at 100.4°F allows for early intervention and management to prevent severe complications associated with excessive heat. Recognizing this threshold is particularly important for those in environments where heat stress is a risk, such as athletes or military personnel in training.