Which of the following symptoms indicates that heat stress may be worsening?

Confusion and slurred speech are critical symptoms indicating that heat stress may be worsening, primarily because they can signify a progression toward heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. These neurological symptoms suggest that the body is struggling to maintain its temperature, leading to a potential failure in the body’s regulatory functions. Mental status changes, including confusion and difficulty in speech, are serious concerns that demand immediate attention, as they can indicate severe dehydration or heat-related illness that could be life-threatening.

The other symptoms mentioned may indicate heat stress but do not reflect its worsening as clearly. For instance, clammy and hot dry skin might suggest heat exhaustion but does not directly correlate with mental status changes. Increased sweating and excessive thirst are common responses to heat, indicating that the body is trying to cool itself and restore hydration, but they do not necessarily indicate a severe escalation of heat stress. In contrast, confusion and slurred speech are alarming indicators that a person may be nearing a heat-related crisis and require urgent medical intervention.