Doc Holiday updates you on specific sun precautions to take during the blistering heat of summer, especially when traveling with very young children.
Summer is the time when children can play so hard and so long that it hurts! Heat stroke takes place when the body’s internal temperature rises high enough to damage itself. This usually occurs from over exertion in very hot weather, which is why taking precautions from the sun is so important.
Although rare, heat stroke can cause imbalances in the body’s electrolytes (or natural salts.) The imbalance can shut down the kidneys and cause shock or even death. Signs of extreme overheating include thirst, fatigue, flushed skin and feelings of dizziness.
At Risk: Infants and Toddlers Especially Need Sun Precaution
At special risk are infants, toddlers and children with chronic illnesses, such as heart and lung problems or diabetes.
Children under 3 are especially sensitive to the sun because the surface area of their heads is large, relative to the rest of their bodies. Take the necessary precautions before exposure to the sun, since the head can absorb harmful amounts of heat. Little ones should always wear hats in hot, sunny weather.
Very young children may not be able to verbalize their need for water. Remember to provide plenty of liquids.
Necessary Sun Precautions to Prevent Heat Stroke
To protect your children this summer, follow these simple common-sense precautions:
Never leave children inside an unattended car.
Every summer children die of heat suffocation after hiding in a trunk, or being locked inside a car, where temperature can reach 150 degrees F.
Make sure infants get plenty of fluids.
Serve older children sports drinks, or food with added salt to replace electrolytes that may be lost due to excessive sweating. If staying hydrated is a challenge, carry packets of flavored hydration salts made for children. The pediatric brands — easy to sprinkle into a water bottle — usually include electrolytes.
More Summertime Precautions and Child Safety Tips
Families may encounter unseasonably hot and dry conditions at home or wherever they travel. That’s why it’s always good to be prepared with sunproof outerwear like clothing, bathing suits, hats and sunglasses. These items help keep the sun’s harmful UV rays off the skin and eyes and may also provide relief from the heat. Sunblock
Adults must monitor their young adventurers. Stay alert for signs of extreme overheating. The most common signs to watch for include thirst, fatigue, flushed skin and feelings of dizziness. If you notice the beginning of any of these symptoms, try the following steps to reduce your child’s body temperature.
1). Give children opportunities to cool off in cold — but not icy — water.
2). Have children play in shady areas and rest often.
3). In times of extreme heat, turn on air-conditioning at home, use fans, or visit movie theaters, restaurants or museums that are air-conditioned.
4). Light colored clothes absorb less heat than dark colors. Avoid clothes made of synthetic fibers; natural fibers allow the body to cool properly.
5). If a child shows signs of overheating, quickly take steps to cool her down with fluids or a cool bath.
Any person who loses consciousness due to heat stroke should be taken immediately to the nearest emergency room.
Harris E. Burstin, MD, our guest columnist as Doc Holiday, is a Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at NYU Langone in New York City.
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