How to Prevent Heat Stroke: Common Sense Guidelines
Published on in Health Tip of the Week
Published on in Health Tip of the Week
When summer heat grows intense, parents need to be mindful of their children’s health. But David Pollack, MD, a pediatrician at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), says there’s no reason to stay indoors all day.
“Kids need outdoor time all year round,” he explains. “The activity, the sunlight, the fresh air, and the exposure to nature are all important for their health. And older kids benefit from detaching from computers and electronic devices. On the hottest summer days, parents simply need to observe some common-sense guidelines and pay close attention to how their kids are feeling.”
Dr. Pollack offers these precautions and suggestions to stay safe and comfortable on hot days and prevent overheating.
Babies and young children are at greater risk of overheating because they sweat less, which limits their ability to cool down in the heat.
When your children are old enough to understand and communicate how they’re feeling, remind them to pay attention to their bodies in the heat, and to tell an adult if they don’t feel well or need to take a break. Parents and caregivers can follow these guidelines to help keep everyone in the family cool and healthy on those steamy summer days.
Dr. Pollack advises parents to watch for signs their children may be overheating.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke sound scary, and they are. But your child is unlikely to experience them if you follow simple precautions. Dr. Pollack offers this slogan for the hot days of summer: “Give plenty of water to your active son and daughter.”
Contributed by: David M. Pollack, MD
Categories: Health Tip of the Week