Heat Stroke In Children: The risk of heat stroke in children is increasing with the heat. Learn from a doctor how to take care of them.
Heat Stroke In Children: Heat stroke can be a major threat to children. According to doctors, children are more sensitive to heat because their bodies are less able to regulate their temperature.
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Heat Stroke In Children: Severe heat is currently raging in many parts of the country, with temperatures reaching 40 to 45 degrees Celsius. This weather is proving to be extremely dangerous for children. Cases are also being reported where children have died due to the intense heat and heatwave. Such incidents have once again highlighted the serious threat heat stroke can pose to children.
According to doctors, children are more sensitive to heat because their bodies aren't as capable of regulating temperature as adults. This is why exposure to intense sunlight and hot air can cause their body temperature to rise rapidly, potentially leading to life-threatening conditions.
What is heat stroke and its symptoms?
Heat stroke occurs when the body temperature rises too high and sweating stops. In such a situation, the body is unable to cool itself. Its main symptoms include dry and red skin, high fever, rapid pulse, dizziness, confusion, and unclear speech. Heat exhaustion is the precursor stage, characterized by excessive sweating, weakness, clammy skin, muscle cramps, and dizziness. If not addressed promptly, this condition can progress to heat stroke.
Why are children more at risk?
Experts say that children's bodies heat up quickly and they also become dehydrated more quickly. They often forget to drink water while playing, increasing the risk of dehydration. This is why even a little carelessness can lead to a serious situation.
Doctor's advice: Take care of children like this: According to Dr. , Pediatric Expert of Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Delhi, special caution is necessary during this summer season . The doctor said that special arrangements have been made in the hospital for children suffering from heat stroke and heat exhaustion. She has said that children should not be taken out in the sun at all during peak hours i.e. afternoon. School vehicles should be properly ventilated and should be pre-cooled. She says that children's outdoor activities should be kept to a minimum and they should wear light, loose cotton clothes. Dark colored clothes should be avoided as these absorb more heat.
According to Dr. Manju Nimesh, if a child has heat stroke and their body temperature has risen, the first step is to remove their clothes, sprinkle cold water on the body, and then wipe it off. If the child is older, have them sit in cold water. If the child is talking incoherently or is mentally unstable, take them to the hospital immediately, as even the slightest delay in such cases can be dangerous.