Prevent Sun Damage and Heat-Related Illnesses in Children
The summer sun is here! Now is time for fun activities outside and making memories together that will be cherished. Protect this time with some simple safety strategies for enjoying the summer heat.
At Weill Cornell Medicine, our physicians provide expert, compassionate care to children of all ages. Here, our team offers tips and strategies for children, parents and caregivers to enjoy a healthy, active summer.
Keep skin healthy in the sun
Andrew F. Alexis M.D., M.P.H., the Vice-Chair for Diversity and Inclusion and Assistant Professor of Dermatology, recommends that children be protected from sun burn and damage with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more.
“Reapply your sunscreen every two hours, wear a broad brimmed hat and other sun protective clothing, plan activities before 10am and after 4pm when possible, and seek shade,” said Dr. Alexis.
For infants and children with sensitive skin, use a sunscreen formulated for sensitive skin. Reduce sun exposure by wearing hats and protective clothing, as well as seeking shade frequently. If going somewhere with little shade, bring an umbrella for the child.
Learn more about summer sun safety, preventing skin cancer and sunscreen facts to enjoy the sun this summer, as well as establish healthy habits for lifelong sun safety.
Prevent heat-related illnesses
Heat-related illness can be from mild (heat cramps), moderate (heat exhaustion) or severe (heat stroke). Severe heat-related illness can be serious and even cause death.
Heat-related illness happens when the body’s temperature control system is overloaded. Infants and children up to four years of age are at highest risk because they are unable to regulate their body temperatures as well as adults. Their temperature rises three to five times faster than adults.
The best way to avoid any heat-related illness is to practice prevention. Be sure to:
- Never leave infants or children in a parked car, even if the windows are open
- Dress infants and children in loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing
- Avoid outdoor activities during mid day, which is usually the hottest time of day
- Take breaks from the heat by seeking shade or cooler spaces for some time
- Be sure to hydrate well!
Know the signs of illness
Be sure to know the signs of heat-related illness in children to promote a highly healthy and happy summer.
Heat stroke is dangerous. Act immediately if you see any signs of heat stroke:
- Severe, throbbing headache
- Weakness, dizziness or confusion
- Difficulty breathing
- Fainting
- Decreased responsiveness
- Little or no sweating
- Flushed, hot or dry skin
- Temperature above 105°F
Seek emergency care if you suspect heat stroke! Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department right away.
Immediately move the child to a cool area, remove excess clothing, fan child, offer cool fluids and cool armpits and groin area with a cool washcloth.
Heat cramps and exhaustion are less severe than heat stroke, but require immediate attention and care to help their body rehydrate and regulate its temperature. The signs of heat cramps and exhaustion include:
- Severe thirst
- Muscle weakness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Irritability
- Headache
- Sweating
- Cold, clammy skin
If you suspect heat cramps or heat exhaustion, address it right away to prevent heat stroke. Be sure to:
- Remove child from heat
- Remove clothing
- Place in cool bath (do not use cold water)
- Give cool fluids containing salt and sugar (such as Pedialyte)
- Cool body with a fan
- Monitor temperature with a thermometer
If the child does not improve, go to the nearest emergency department. IV (intravenous) fluids may be needed.
Preventing sun damage and heat-related illness will help you and your loved ones enjoy a happy, healthy and fun-filled summer!
Be sure to learn more about the comprehensive services offered. Our providers have earned a reputation for providing excellent patient care and educating families to become healthier and safer. Find a doctor today.