Heat exhaustion in toddlers is even more common than in other age groups. It can also be especially dangerous for young children and can lead to heatstroke or even death. It’s important to know what symptoms to look for when the summer temperatures get high to make sure your toddler is safe. It’s also important to know what steps to take to prevent heat exhaustion for yourself and your kids. Hopefully, you’ll be able to enjoy a fun family summer without suffering from any sun-related illnesses.
Heat Exhaustion in Toddlers: Warning Signs and Prevention
Heat exhaustion in toddlers occurs when the body gets overheated and they are unable to cool the body down. It can also be a result of dehydration. Humidity plays a big factor as well as temperature. If heat exhaustion is left untreated, it can lead to heatstroke. This can be deadly in some cases. Heat exhaustion always precedes heatstroke, so watching out for symptoms of heat exhaustion will protect your children from
heatstroke.
Why Does it Happen to Toddlers?
Heat exhaustion in toddlers is more common than in other age groups. This is because they have a smaller body surface area to help regulate their temperature. They also are not very good at realizing when they are getting overheated or dehydrated. In addition, toddlers tend to be more dehydrated than other ages. Babies and infants are usually getting plenty of liquids through milk, formula, or breast milk. And adults typically drink when they are feeling hot. But toddlers tend to get distracted and not realize how hot and thirsty they are and can overheat easily.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Heat exhaustion in toddlers is often easy to spot because they tend to get very pale when overheated. They also might be very cranky or suddenly start pitching a tantrum. Watch out for excessive sweating, nausea, headache, and weakness. If they begin falling or seeming dizzy, it’s time to take them inside. In addition, if their skin feels cold and clammy it can be a warning sign.
What to Do When it Happens
Heat exhaustion in toddlers is usually relatively easy to treat as long as you notice symptoms early. Get them inside to air conditioning or at the very least into some shade. Cool their skin with water and give them sips of water to rehydrate. Try to fan them off and have them sit or lay down for a little while. If they can nibble a little bit of food that can be helpful as well. If they don’t seem to improve after ten or fifteen minutes, you should seek medical attention. Plan your day around plenty of shade, indoor breaks, and try to stick to the mornings and evenings for outdoor time. And of course, always bring along plenty of water!
Heat exhaustion in toddlers can be very scary, and it can lead to heatstroke if it goes unnoticed. Toddlers and young children are especially prone to sun-related illness because they have a harder time regulating their body temperature. They also have a harder time realizing when their body is giving them warning signs. Watch out for dizziness, irritability, pale skin, nausea, or skin that is clammy. If your child is experiencing any of these things, get them inside or into the shade and cool them with water until they seem better. Acting quickly and early can prevent heat exhaustion from turning into heatstroke. Have fun in the sun, but remember to take frequent breaks and bring along plenty of water for everyone.
