Parenting
What You Should Know About Heat Exhaustion in Children
By the Home Insemination Team
Updated: July 25, 2021
Originally Published: April 29, 2021
Being a kid often means plenty of outdoor play, especially when the weather is warm. However, kids may forget to take breaks, seek shade, or drink enough water while they’re busy having fun. These precautions are vital throughout the year but become even more critical during hot months when children can suffer from heat exhaustion or heat stroke. It’s important to note that even infants are vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Here’s a guide on heat exhaustion in children and babies, including the signs to watch for and the reasons why kids are more prone to heat-related issues.
Recognizing Heat Exhaustion in Your Child
Generally, children’s bodies are effective at regulating temperature. However, on extremely hot or humid days, their natural cooling mechanisms may fall short, leading to heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. While both conditions arise from high temperatures and inadequate hydration, heat stroke is significantly more severe, potentially reaching temperatures as high as 106 degrees Fahrenheit, which can result in brain injury or even death, according to KidsHealth. If not addressed promptly, heat exhaustion can escalate to heat stroke.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion in children may include:
- Elevated body temperature, typically under 104 degrees Fahrenheit
- Cool, damp skin despite the heat
- Goosebumps
- Dizziness, fainting, or weakness
- Headaches
- Increased sweating
- Thirst
- Irritability
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea or vomiting
Conversely, signs of heat stroke in children can manifest as:
- High body temperature exceeding 104 degrees Fahrenheit
- Lack of sweating
- Confusion or disorientation
- Hot, dry skin (though it may also be wet)
- Loss of consciousness
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Rapid heartbeat and breathing
- Severe headaches
- Seizures
- Weakness or dizziness
While it’s uncommon for infants to experience heat exhaustion or stroke, it can still occur, particularly if they are outside for extended periods or left in a parked car. Symptoms of heat-related illnesses in babies may include restlessness, rapid breathing, lethargy, irritability, and vomiting.
Treating Heat Exhaustion in Children
If your child exhibits signs of heat exhaustion, KidsHealth suggests the following actions:
- Move your child to a cooler environment, such as an air-conditioned room or shaded area.
- Remove excess clothing.
- Encourage hydration with water or cool fluids that contain salt and sugar, like sports drinks.
- Apply a cool, damp cloth or immerse your child in cool water.
- Contact your healthcare provider for guidance. If your child is too weak or ill to drink fluids, they may require IV hydration.
If heat exhaustion progresses to heat stroke, immediate medical attention is necessary. While awaiting help, make sure to:
- Get your child to a cool or shaded area.
- Remove clothing and cool them down with water.
- Only give fluids if your child is awake, alert, and behaving normally.
Why Are Children More Vulnerable to Heat-Related Illnesses?
Several factors contribute to children’s increased susceptibility to heat exhaustion and stroke compared to healthy adults. According to Boston Children’s Hospital:
- Children and adolescents take longer to adapt to heat changes compared to adults.
- Kids generate more heat during activities while sweating less.
- Children may forget to hydrate or take breaks when playing outside for long periods.
Ultimately, it’s crucial to supervise your children in warm weather, ensuring they wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, take breaks, and find shade whenever possible.
Does Your Child Overheat Easily?
Sometimes, sensory processing disorder (SPD) can cause children to overheat more quickly. This condition affects how the brain processes sensory information, leading to delayed or absent signs of overheating.
Post-Heat Exhaustion Nutrition
After recovering from heat exhaustion, kids may need to replenish lost nutrients. Offer snacks and meals rich in electrolytes, carbohydrates, and potassium to help them regain energy. Helpful options include:
- Artichokes
- Salted crackers or pretzels
- Cucumbers
- Bananas
- Oranges
- Spinach
Foods to Avoid During Hot Weather
To prevent heat exhaustion, steer clear of diuretic foods that cause increased urination, which can exacerbate dehydration. Avoid items like tea, soda, mangoes, asparagus, pomegranate, and pistachios during hot days.
For more information on caring for your child’s health in warm weather, check out another one of our blog posts here. If you’re interested in fertility tips, visit Make A Mom for expert advice. Additionally, Parents.com offers a comprehensive guide on what to expect for those undergoing their first IUI here.
Summary
Heat exhaustion is a serious concern for children, especially during hot weather. Recognizing the symptoms and knowing how to respond can prevent more severe heat-related illnesses like heat stroke. Children are particularly vulnerable due to their bodies’ slower adaptation to heat and their tendency to forget to hydrate. Always supervise outdoor play in warm conditions, ensuring your child stays cool and hydrated.