Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Spanish version

There are three main reactions to an extremely hot environment. All three are caused by excessive loss of water through sweating.

HEATSTROKE OR SUNSTROKE

1. Description
   • hot, flushed skin
   • high fever (at least 105 degrees F, or 40.6 degrees C)
   • not sweating
   • delirium or unconsciousness
   • shock (low blood pressure).

2. First aid
   • Call your child's physician IMMEDIATELY.
   • The high fever can be a life-threatening emergency. Cool your child off as rapidly as possible. Move him to a cool place. Sponge him with cool water (as cold as is tolerable), and fan him. If your child is unconscious, immersion in cold water could be life- saving. (Note: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen will not help.)
   • If your child is conscious, give him a glass of cold water to drink every 15 minutes until he feels better.
   • Call for emergency transportation.

HEAT EXHAUSTION

1. Description
   • cold, pale skin
   • no fever (temperature less than 100 degrees F, or 37.8 degrees C)
   • sweating
   • dizziness
   • fainting
   • weakness.

2. First aid
   • Call your child's physician IMMEDIATELY.
   • Put your child in a cool place. Have him lie down with his feet elevated.
   • Give your child a glass of cold water to drink every 15 minutes until he feels better.
   • Your physician will probably want to examine your child's state of hydration. You can drive him in, but keep him lying down in the back seat during the drive and continue to offer water during the ride.

HEAT CRAMPS

1. Description
   • severe cramps in the limbs and abdomen
   • no fever.

2. Home care

   Heat cramps are the most common reaction to excessive heat. They are never serious. Give your child a glass of cold water to drink every 15 minutes until he feels better. Children with heat cramps do not need to be seen by a physician.

PREVENTION

When your child is working or exercising in a hot environment, have him drink extra fluids. Avoid salt tablets because they slow down the absorption of water. Light-colored, lightweight clothing will help keep your child cooler.