There are three main reactions to an extremely hot
environment. All three are caused by excessive loss of water through sweating.
Heatstroke or Sunstroke
Symptoms
- hot, flushed skin
- high fever (at least 105°F, or 40.6°C)
- not sweating
- delirium or unconsciousness
- shock (low blood pressure).
First aid
- Call your child's health care provider IMMEDIATELY.
- The high fever can be a life-threatening emergency. Cool
your child off as rapidly as possible. Move him to a cool place. Sponge him
with cool water (as cold as is tolerable), and fan him. If your child is
unconscious, immersion in cold water could be life-saving. Note: Ibuprofen
(Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) will not help.
- If your child is conscious, give him a glass of cold water
to drink every 15 minutes until he feels better.
- Call for emergency transportation.
Heat Exhaustion
Symptoms
- cold, pale skin
- no fever (temperature less than 100°F, or 37.8°C)
- sweating
- dizziness
- fainting
- weakness.
First aid
- Call your child's health care provider IMMEDIATELY.
- Put your child in a cool place. Have him lie down with his
feet elevated.
- Give your child a glass of cold water to drink every 15
minutes until he feels better.
- Your health care provider will probably want to examine
your child's state of hydration. After 2 or 3 glasses of water, you can
drive in. Continue to offer your child water during the ride.
Heat Cramps
Symptoms
- severe cramps in the limbs and abdomen
- no fever.
Home care
Heat cramps are the most common reaction to excessive heat.
They are never serious. Give your child a glass of cold water to drink every
15 minutes until he feels better. Children with heat cramps do not need to be
seen by a health care provider.
Prevention
When your child is working or exercising in a hot environment,
have him drink extra fluids. Avoid salt tablets because they slow down the
absorption of water. Light-colored, lightweight clothing will help keep your
child cooler.
