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Most cases of heat-related illnesses in children and teens occur from excessive physical activity on hot, humid days.

1. 1.Mild Heat Illness: cramps, especially of the leg muscles; breathing fast (hyperventilation) with swelling, tingling or spasms of the hands and feet. Children with mild heat illness usually recover completely. However, it is essential to stop activity and lower body temperature to prevent the more serious following conditions. For heat cramps give liquids, water or sports drinks like Gatorade.
2. 2.Heat exhaustion: headache, nausea and vomiting, dizziness – especially when standing up, weakness, pale and clammy skin, fainting. If your child faints in the heat immediate medical attention is needed. Get your child in a cooler location. Use fans to cool the body. Remove excess clothing. Place ice on the groin and armpit areas. Give liquids.
3. 3.Heatstroke is the most severe form of heat-related illness and it needs immediate medical help. It manifest as “passing out” (unconsciousness) preceded by confusion or other changes in thinking and behavior and profuse sweating. It is a medical emergency so call 911 or other emergency number. Aggressive cooling and fluid replacement, usually by vein, are needed.

All these conditions can be prevented. When exercising on hot days, make sure that children take frequent breaks for rest out of the sun and drink enough water. Give liquids before and every 15-20 minutes during exercise. Cold water is the best choice.

It is a good idea not to do outdoor activities when the air temperature is above 95F (35C). Schedule outdoor activities in the early morning and late afternoon. Stop the activity if any of the above mentioned symptoms occur.

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