07/15/2013
Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a person becomes extremely overheated. Basically, the body's temperature rises while its ability to cool off shuts down.
Babies and young children are especially vulnerable to heat stroke. Your baby might get heat stroke if he is outside too long in very hot weather, for example, especially if he becomes dehydrated or if he's dressed too warmly.
Riding in a hot car — or leaving him in a parked car, which you should never do — would put him at risk, too. Heat stroke can occur within minutes in a car, where the temperature quickly climbs much higher than the outside temperature.
How will I know if my baby has heat stroke?
Your baby may first show signs of heat exhaustion, which is milder. You may notice that he's unusually thirsty or tired, or that his skin is cool and moist. If he's old enough, he may complain of leg or stomach cramps.
If your baby's heat exhaustion progresses to heat stroke, he may have any of the following symptoms:
• A temperature of 103 degrees Fahrenheit (39.4 degrees Celsius) or higher — but no sweating
• Hot, red, dry skin
• Rapid pulse
• Restlessness
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Headache (which may make him irritable)
• Vomiting
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Lethargy (Your baby might not respond as strongly as usual when you call his name or tickle his skin, for example.)
• Unconsciousness
You'll also want to watch for signs of dehydration.
What should I do if I suspect my baby has heat stroke?
You'll need to bring your baby's internal temperature down as quickly as possible. Time is of the essence — a child suffering from severe heat stroke can easily slip into unconsciousness.
First, call 911. Then undress your baby completely and lay him down in a cool area. If you're outside in the sun, find some shade, but if at all possible, move him into a cool room.
While you're waiting for the ambulance, sponge down your baby's body with a washcloth or rag dipped in cool water, and fan him. You can use an electric fan or simply fan him with something in your hand, like a magazine.
Talk to your baby reassuringly to keep him calm. Don't give him anything to drink. And though you may be tempted to give your baby acetaminophen, it won't lower a temperature caused by heat stroke.
If your baby is showing signs of heat exhaustion but it hasn't progressed to heat stroke, bring him indoors — to an air conditioned room, if possible. Give him plenty of breast milk or formula and, if he's 4 months or older, a little water.
You might also give him a cool bath and keep him indoors for the rest of the day. If he doesn't seem to be improving quickly, take him to the doctor or emergency room.
How can I prevent my baby from getting heat stroke?
It doesn't take much to bring on overheating, especially if your baby's not used to the hot weather (in the beginning of summer, for example).
Dress your baby in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. Try to keep him in the shade when you take him outside, and check to make sure that he's staying cool during car rides. Give him more fluids than usual on hot days, and when the temperature is really severe, keep your baby indoors if you can.
If your home is very hot and you don't have air conditioning, seek comfort at a public library, the mall, or a community shelter provided especially for relief from the heat.
