As summer temperatures soar into triple digits, pediatricians advise parents to watch for heat-related illnesses in their children.
“Adults tend to slow down in the heat, but kids keep their energy levels high,” said Dr. Colleen Kraft from Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.
Doctors warn that children heat up much faster than adults, between three to five times quicker. Their young bodies struggle to cool down efficiently.
Dr. Kraft noted that children often continue playing until they collapse from heat-related issues, which parents may not immediately recognize.
“A child might complain suddenly of stomachaches, leg pain, or headaches,” Kraft explained, highlighting the abrupt onset of symptoms.
She pointed out that children’s sweat glands work differently from adults’, making them more susceptible to heat, especially infants.
If children show signs of dehydration, parents should bring them indoors, cool them with damp cloths, and ensure they drink water immediately.
Parents should call 911 if they notice severe symptoms like red cheeks, rapid pulse, or fever indicating heat exhaustion in their children.
“Children can’t always express if they’re feeling hot or uncomfortable,” said Tatiana Guevara, a grandmother from Silverlake who takes precautions with her 19-month-old grandchild during warm weather.
Dr. Kraft recommends staying indoors during peak heat hours and suggests alternative activities like visiting museums, watching movies, or relaxing in cafes.
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She emphasizes that children should drink at least eight ounces of water per hour of play and encourages proactive hydration before thirst sets in.
Water-rich fruits like watermelon can also help keep children hydrated, Guevara added.
Lastly, Dr. Kraft urges parents never to leave children or pets unattended in hot cars, emphasizing the dangers of heatstroke.
