Sun stroke--or heat stroke, as it is commonly called--is a serious, life-threatening condition that always warrants medical intervention. Call for emergency medical help if heat stroke is suspected. It's vital that parents and others who work with very young children learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat stroke in toddlers, because young children may not have the language skills to complain of their discomfort or the discipline to notice their own distress.
Physical Signs of Heat Stroke in Toddlers
Heat stroke is caused by the body's failure to regulate body temperature. According to the American Red Cross, signs of heat stroke include reddened skin that's hot to the touch and changes in consciousness. Other signs include rapid and weak pulse or breathing, vomiting, and fever that may reach106 degrees F. The extremely high internal body temperature can cause brain damage or even death. Because the body's temperature regulation system doesn't function properly when afflicted with heat stroke, the child may not sweat normally. Her skin may feel very dry and hot.
Behavioral Signs of Heat Stroke in Toddlers
Toddlers generally don't have the language to express their discomfort, so caregivers must be attuned to behavioral signs that the child is at risk. When the child is overheated from excessive exercise, caregivers should watch for signs of heat stroke. Heat stroke is also a real possibility if the child has been in a hot environment for an extended time, such as a hot car or a room without air-conditioning. A toddler who is simply overheated may be cranky or fussy, and should be taken to a cool area and kept quiet to avoid problems. A toddler who acts erratically, engages in unusual repetitive motions (such as repeatedly standing, then sitting, then standing) or passes out may be having difficulty with heat stroke.
Special Considerations for Toddlers
The American Red Cross cautions that very young children are especially at risk for heat-related problems. Their internal temperature control systems are not yet fully developed. Their temperatures can change very suddenly, causing them to succumb to heat illnesses more quickly than healthy adults. According to Dr. J.R. Bytomski and Dr. D.L. Squire of Duke University's Pediatric Division, children also have a lower sweat production rate and are slower to adjust to environmental changes.
References
- How to Recognize and Treat Heat Emergencies
- Are You Ready for a Heat Wave?
- Bytomski JR, & Squire DL. (2003). Heat illness in children. Current Sports Medicine Reports. 2(6), 320-4.
