What is the result of excessive exposure to high temperatures, leading to severe body malfunction?

The phenomenon of excessive exposure to high temperatures leading to severe body malfunction is accurately described as heat stroke. This condition occurs when the body's temperature regulation mechanisms fail, and the core body temperature rises to dangerous levels, typically above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). Heat stroke is characterized by symptoms such as confusion, altered mental state, and loss of consciousness, among other severe manifestations. It is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate attention to prevent serious outcomes, including organ damage or death.

Hyperthermia encompasses a broader category of heat-related illnesses, which can include heat exhaustion and heat stroke itself, but it does not specifically define the severe state caused by heat stroke. Sun poisoning refers to a severe skin reaction to sun exposure and is not related to the systemic body malfunction associated with high temperatures. Heat exhaustion is a less severe condition that precedes heat stroke and involves symptoms such as heavy sweating and weakness but does not reach the critical levels of body malfunction seen in heat stroke.