Heatstroke - how does it occur and how to prevent it?

Heatstroke may or may not occur as a result of direct sun exposure. It usually occurs when humidity is increased during the summer heat, because such conditions hinder sweating. Children are at high risk of heatstroke, and the younger the child, the higher the risk.

Heatstroke symptoms are:

• high body temperature (above 40 °C),
• red, hot and dry skin,
• fast, shallow breathing,
• tachycardia - rapid heart rate (160-180 heartbeats per minute),
• muscle weakness and cramps,
• low blood pressure,
• dizziness, headache, fatigue,
• nausea and vomiting,
• loss of consciousness (sometimes unconsciousness is the first sign),
• absence of sweating.

How to prevent heat stroke?

• Make sure your child is getting enough fluids (always have water with you).
• Avoid staying in the sun, staying in warm and stuffy rooms, as well as excessive physical exertion of the child.
• As a basic form of prevention, an adequate choice of clothes suitable for weather conditions is recommended. In high heat, dress children in the lightest possible clothes. Dress the baby in a sleeveless onesie and never put socks on his/her feet.
• Older children should wear sleeveless shirts and shorts, and the best choice of footwear is open-toed, such as sandals.
• The diet should be balanced and light, rich in vitamins and minerals.

Never leave children alone in the car and always keep the car locked, to prevent children from getting in without asking, while playing. Children are often victims of heatstroke in cars. It is enough to leave the child in the car for a short time while running an errand, and during that time - if your car is parked in the sun, the temperature in the car will rise significantly and endanger your child's health.