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Thursday, July 9, 1998 Last modified at 12:53 a.m. on Thursday, July 9, 1998
Doctor warns parents to watch for signs of heat-related illness
A pediatric physician at the Children's Emergency Center at Methodist Children's Hospital advises parents to make sure their children drink plenty of fluids during the hot summer.
Dr. Mike Cowan said in a written release that infants and young children are susceptible to heat-related injuries because their sweat glands are not fully developed, "therefore, the body is not able to cool itself."
To protect children from heat-related illnesses follow a few precautions:
Avoid outdoor activities from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.;
Drink plenty of fluids, avoiding caffeinated drinks;
Stay in the shade whenever possible;
Wear loose-fitting clothing.
Cowan suggests keeping a close watch on young children for signs of heat-related illness, including headache, vomiting, dizziness, slowed reaction time, hot, red skin but no sweating, a body temperature of 104 degrees or more, delirium, and muscle spasms in the abdomen, arms or legs after strenuous activity.
Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition resulting from high temperatures.
To treat heat stroke, move to a cooler location, apply cool, wet cloths, and contact medical assistance immediately.