What is the danger of heat stroke in a child? Treatment and symptoms

Heat stroke occurs due to overheating of the body, people of different ages are subject to the condition, but especially babies up to a year old. This is due to the immaturity of the thermoregulation system. As a result of overwork and prolonged exposure to the sun without a headgear, a heat stroke occurs in a child. Treatment must be carried out immediately, otherwise it can cause irreversible processes in the structure of the brain.

heat stroke in a child treatment

The lack of fluid in the body of children instantly makes itself felt, since in babies the water content is greater than in adults. According to medical data, in 30% of cases there is a fatal outcome with severe overheating of the baby. If an ambulance was not provided to the child, then in his body during heatstroke, metabolic processes are disturbed and toxic substances accumulate, which poison the vital internal organs (heart, kidneys and brain).

Main reasons

First of all, exposure to high air temperature causes a heat stroke in the child. The treatment is aimed at cooling the body: the baby must be transferred to a cool place and put ice wrapped in tissue on large vessels. Another reason is the wearing of synthetic or too warm (not suitable for the weather) clothing, which prevents air from entering and natural heat transfer. It also contributes to a long stay in a very humid and stuffy room.

heat stroke treatment in children

Signs of heat stroke in a child

Heat stroke can occur in mild, moderate and extremely severe form. The mild form is manifested by general weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache and rapid breathing. With moderate severity, vomiting, fever up to 40 ° C, as well as severe pain in the temples, fainting and impaired motor activity are observed. A severe degree occurs suddenly. The child loses consciousness, sharply turns pale, hallucinations and convulsions are noted. A serious danger is a heat stroke in a child. Treatment is carried out in specialized medical centers, but first aid should be carried out immediately.

signs of heat stroke in a child

First of all, an adult will need to unfasten the collar of clothing, wrap the child in cold cloth, put an ice compress on his forehead, and a roller under his head. Ammonia will help bring to consciousness. Treatment of heat stroke in children is aimed at eliminating the cause. All these primary events can be held before the ambulance arrives. If the baby does not regain consciousness, it is necessary to do artificial respiration with direct heart massage.

How to prevent heat stroke in a child?

Treatment can be prescribed only by a doctor, and in order not to bring to this state, you need to adhere to simple rules. In hot weather, walk with the baby in the shade until 11 a.m. Buy clothes made from natural materials so that it allows the baby's body to breathe and does not restrict movement. A light panama hat or cap will help protect your head from scorching rays.

Be sure to take water with you for a walk. Do not wrap the baby in warm clothes, try not to be close with the air conditioning system. The child’s room should have a comfortable temperature, ventilate the room more often to avoid negative consequences.


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