If body temperature rises or drops outside the safe margins, what is the likely outcome?

• A. Recovery
• B. Minor illness
• C. Death occurs
• D. No change

Answer: (C)

When body temperature leaves the safe range, enzymes and metabolic processes lose their efficiency and can start to fail. The body relies on a very narrow temperature window to keep biochemical reactions working smoothly; outside that window, membranes become unstable and organs can malfunction. The brain and heart are especially vulnerable, so mental status changes, heart rhythm problems, and collapse can follow as the temperature remains outside safe margins. Because these systems deteriorate quickly if the imbalance isn't corrected, the likely outcome is severe, often leading to death rather than a quick recovery or only a minor illness.