As temperatures rise, so do the risks of heat-related illnesses.
Whether your kids are headed to the pool, camp or sports conditioning, it’s important to know the difference between heat rash, exhaustion and stroke. It can help you determine whether you need to cool off at home or seek emergency care.
Heat Rash: Usually Mild
Heat rash, also called “prickly heat,” happens when sweat gets trapped under the skin. It’s common in babies, but older kids can get it too. It is usually harmless and can improve quickly once the skin cools down.
Symptoms:
- Red, prickly little dots
- Itchy skin
- May feel a little warm to the touch
- Flushed cheeks
- Can appear anywhere sweat collects, such as neck, chest, back, elbows and on the trunk, which is where we maintain the most heat
HELPFUL HINT: Be mindful of babies taking long car rides in the summer. They can get particularly hot in their car seat with extra layers on.
Heat Exhaustion: More Concerning
Heat exhaustion happens when the body loses too much water and salt through sweating and can no longer cool itself properly. It is more serious than heat rash, but not life-threatening like heat stroke.
Babies younger than six months are more susceptible because they have immature thermoregulation, or the ability to regulate body temperature. Also, keep an eye out for teens who are having long practices in the summer heat.
Signs of heat exhaustion:
- Pale skin
- Temperature of 100–102° F
- Sweating
- Nausea
- Dizziness or fainting
- Headache
- Drowsy and confused
What to do if you suspect heat exhaustion:
- Get them out of the sun.
- Remove their clothes.
- Use cool towels or a cool shower.
- Offer cool water. Give formula to babies younger than 6 months old.
- Take their temperature frequently to make sure it’s not worsening.
IMPORTANT TO KNOW: Most kids will improve within 30 minutes of treatment. If symptoms continue to progress or worsen, such as vomiting, body temperature rising or confusion, call your doctor or seek urgent care.
Heat Stroke: A Medical Emergency
Heat stroke is very concerning and can become life-threatening quickly. It happens when the body’s temperature becomes dangerously high and cannot cool itself. It is a medical emergency.
Signs of heat stroke:
- Temperature above 104° F
- Confusion, disorientation or passing out
- Red, hot, dry skin (do not wait for the skin to turn dry before determining it’s an emergency!)
- Severe headache
- Rapid heart rate
What to do immediately:
Quick treatment is essential because heat stroke can affect all of a child’s organs.
- Call 911 or head to the hospital.
- Place in bathtub with cool water, not freezing or ice water.
- Aim a fan or air conditioner at them.
- Offer fluids if they’re conscious.
DOWNLOAD NOW: A quick breakdown of the differences between heat rash, exhaustion and stroke.
HOW TO PREVENT HEAT-RELATED ILLNESSES
Babies younger than 6 months and kids who are active in the heat are the most at-risk for heat-related illnesses. The good news is that it is preventable with proper planning.
Steps to prevent heat-related illnesses:
- Keep an eye on the temperature and heat index. Anything over 90° F is going to put your child at risk.
- Encourage frequent water breaks. For teens doing summer training, drink 8 ounces every 30 minutes. If they’re exercising for over an hour outside, replace one water drink with a sports drink.
- Dress them in lightweight, light–colored clothing.
- Take breaks in air conditioning or shade.
- Check in with your kids frequently. They may not want to stop playing even when they’re overheated!
Trust your gut! If you’re worried that something isn’t right, find the safest way to cool them down and call your doctor.
If your child requires immediate care, call 911 or go to an emergency room. Or if you need help finding a primary care physician, please visit our Primary Care Offices.
