According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heat-related illness occurs when a toddler's body is unable to cool itself because of high temperatures, humidity and lack of adequate hydration. Toddlers adjust more slowly to temperature changes than adults and produce more heat with activity, yet sweat less, according to ChildrensHospital.org. Toddlers are also likely to overindulge in an activity when having fun without proper rest or rehydration. Some toddlers may be more susceptible to heat stroke due to lower tolerance, medications or other health problems, according to ChildrensHospital.org. In addition to heat stroke, toddlers may suffer from other heat illness including heat exhaustion and heat cramps. According to DrGreene.com, nearly 50 percent of individuals who suffer from heat stroke die.
Visible Signs
A toddler may exhibit visible signs of heat stroke. These indicate the body temperature has already risen and action needs to be taken to cool the child. According to the CDC, the skin will appear red, feel hot and dry, and the toddler will not be sweating. According to DrGreene.com a different form of heat stroke, called exertional, includes profuse sweating. In addition, your toddler may show signs of dehydration, which only increases the risk of heat stroke. Visible signs of dehydration include a dry, parched mouth and lips, no tears while crying, hands and feet that feel cold and look splotchy, and sunken eyes, according to BabyCenter.com.
Behavioral Signs
Heat stroke is characterized not only by the extreme rise in body temperature, but also the change in behavior or mental status. A toddler may seem dizzy, confused, experience hallucinations or even fall unconscious due to heat stroke. Your toddler may seem restless or have difficulty getting comfortable. When speaking to your toddler or attempting to get her attention she may be too lethargic to respond. Other behavioral signs of dehydration include lethargy, lightheadedness, delirium, excessive sleepiness, or fussiness, according to BabyCenter.com.
Other Signs
According to the CDC, a toddler's pulse may be strong and rapid due to heat stroke. A body temperature may read at 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, when taken orally, explains the CDC. Heat stroke in infants and young children typically builds up over several days, according to DrGreene.com. Nausea and vomiting may also be present. According to BabyCenter.com, other signs of dehydration may include fewer than normal wet diapers, or less frequent urination, and the urine is darker and has a stronger odor.
