Protect Your Kids from Overexposure to Heat or Sun – Heat Cramps, Stroke and Exhaustion

Just because summer is almost over doesn’t mean you should let your guard down when it comes to overexposure to heat or sun. Remember that children are more susceptible than young or middle-aged adults. Know the three types of heat stress and what to do if your child shows symptoms.

Number one is HEAT CRAMPS. These are muscle spasms. The body can be set off by a salt imbalance when it comes to excessive exercise and sweating. Typical symptoms are painful leg cramps, flushed face, nausea and mild fever.

Number two is HEAT EXHAUSTION. This is an illness and is more serious than just cramping. It is caused from excessive exposure to heat or physical activity. Symptoms are usually flu-like with a fever of over 102 degrees F. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cool and pale clammy skin, strong thirst and heavy sweating are also serious symptoms.

Number three is HEAT STROKE – the most severe of the three. This can be life-threatening and injure major organs like muscles, the heart, liver, kidneys and brain. Symptoms to look for include fever above 105 degrees F, no sweating, hysteria and confusion.

Overexposure to sun can cause sun poisoning. Symptoms can include a red skin rash with small blisters, fatigue, dizziness and fever.

Here are some simple tips to avoid overexposure to heat or sun with your kids.

1. Fluids always count. The best drinks are water and sports drinks. Keep your kids downing them.

2. Seek shade as much as possible to avoid direct sunlight, especially if your child will be outside for a few hours, such as at a picnic outing or at the beach.

3. Apply sunscreen 20 to 30 minutes before your child goes outside and re-apply every two hours or according to directions on the bottle.

4. Just because there may be no direct sunlight doesn’t mean children are safe from the heat. Apply sunscreen and seek shade during cloudy days – the shade offers some relief – and NEVER leave your child in a hot car, even if for one minute with the windows down!

5. Get them out of the heat! Pay attention to how long your child plays outside and monitor the time wisely. Allow less outside play time if your child is excessively active.

Post warning signs in an accessible location in your home and call a health professional immediately should your child exhibit any symptoms from overexposure to heat or sun. Play safe and make the most of summer playtime together.