What is a potential consequence of untreated heat stroke?

Heat stroke is a severe condition that occurs when the body's temperature regulation fails and the body temperature rises to dangerous levels, typically above 104°F (40°C). One of the potential consequences of untreated heat stroke is cardiac arrest, which can occur due to the extreme stress placed on the heart and other vital organs. As the body overheats, it can lead to complications such as brain damage and multi-organ failure, ultimately resulting in cardiac arrest if immediate medical intervention is not provided.

While other conditions mentioned in the options, such as frostbite, hypothermia, and heat cramps, are related to temperature extremes, they arise from different circumstances. Frostbite and hypothermia are associated with exposure to cold, whereas heat cramps are mild heat-related illnesses that occur during physical exertion in hot environments but do not have the same life-threatening implications as untreated heat stroke. Thus, cardiac arrest stands out as a critical and potentially fatal consequence when heat stroke is left untreated.