Summer in India is not just about vacations, mangoes, and vibrant festivals; it also brings with it sweltering heat waves, posing significant risks, especially to our children. Heat stroke, a severe and potentially life-threatening condition, is becoming increasingly common in young children during scorching summers. Understanding the signs, risks, prevention strategies, and treatment methods is crucial for every parent and caregiver.
What is Heat Stroke?
Heat stroke occurs when the body overheats, usually due to prolonged exposure or physical exertion in high temperatures. Children's bodies heat up three to five times faster than adults, making them particularly vulnerable. A child's thermoregulatory system is less efficient, and their smaller bodies retain more heat, causing them to quickly progress from mild heat-related illness to heat stroke.
Recognizing the Signs
Early recognition can save lives. Symptoms of heat stroke in children include:
· High body temperature: Typically, above 104°F (40°C).
· Hot, red, dry, or damp skin: Skin may feel extremely hot to touch.
· Rapid pulse: The heart beats faster as the body tries to cool down.
· Headache and dizziness: Affected children may feel lightheaded or dizzy.
· Nausea and vomiting: Digestive issues are common symptoms.
· Confusion or irritability: Behavioural changes indicating neurological stress.
· Loss of consciousness or seizures: Severe cases may involve fainting or seizures.
Risk Factors for Heat Stroke in Children
Several factors heighten the risk of heat stroke:
1. High Temperature and Humidity: Exposure to hot, humid weather without sufficient hydration.
2. Physical Exertion: Playing or participating in sports without breaks or adequate water intake.
3. Dehydration: Reduced water intake significantly increases vulnerability.
4. Clothing: Wearing heavy or non-breathable clothing.
5. Enclosed Spaces: Being left in parked cars, poorly ventilated rooms, or crowded areas.
Preventing Heat Stroke: Essential Steps for Parents
Preventive measures are straightforward but vital:
· Hydration is Key: Ensure children drink plenty of fluids, especially water, coconut water, or homemade lemonade. Avoid sugary or caffeinated beverages.
· Dress Smart: Use lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-coloured clothing to facilitate better heat dispersion.
· Timing Activities Wisely: Schedule outdoor playtimes in the cooler parts of the day—early mornings or late evenings.
· Regular Breaks: If children are playing or participating in sports, encourage frequent breaks and rest periods in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
· Sun Protection: Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and ensure children wear wide-brimmed hats when outdoors.
· Never Leave Children Unattended in Cars: Temperatures inside vehicles can rapidly rise to dangerous levels, even with windows slightly open.
First-Aid Measures
If you suspect your child is experiencing heat stroke, immediate action is critical:
1. Move to a Cooler Location: Bring your child to a shaded or air-conditioned place.
2. Cool the Body: Use cool water sponging or a cool bath to bring the temperature down gradually.
3. Hydrate: Offer small sips of water if the child is conscious and able to drink.
4. Avoid Rapid Cooling Methods: Do not use ice water as it can cause shivering, raising body temperature.
5. Seek Immediate Medical Help: Even if your child appears to improve, seek professional medical attention immediately.
The Role of Community Awareness
Awareness campaigns through community centres, schools, and media can significantly reduce cases of heat stroke. Educating parents, teachers, and caregivers on recognizing symptoms and administering prompt first aid can save countless young lives.
Schools should proactively adjust schedules during heat waves, provide shaded play areas, and regularly remind students about hydration and safe practices. Paediatricians and healthcare providers must counsel parents during summer check-ups about heat-related illness prevention.
Government and Institutional Responsibilities
Government bodies can actively support preventive strategies by:
· Issuing timely heatwave warnings through media channels.
· Ensuring ready availability of medical services, particularly in rural and vulnerable urban areas.
· Mandating schools to incorporate heat stroke prevention protocols.
A Call to Action
Heat stroke in children is preventable, yet every year we lose young lives due to inadequate precautions. It’s a collective responsibility of parents, caregivers, healthcare professionals, schools, and government bodies to ensure our children are safe and healthy during summer.
As summers grow hotter with climate change, let us unite in creating a safer environment for our children. Awareness, preparation, and timely intervention can help protect our precious young ones from the dangers of heat stroke.
Let’s commit to keeping our children cool, safe, and hydrated this summer and every summer to come.
Dr. Venugopal Reddy Iragamreddy
Paediatrician, Author, Researcher, Community Advocate and Medical Director.
Working in Ovum Woman and Child Speciality Hospital, Bangalore