How to Handle Sunburn and Other Heat-Related Injuries

When the temperatures of August shoot up, it’s hard to think of doing anything except hanging out at the pool or beach. It’s easy to lose track of time when having fun in the sun and that’s when the danger of sunburn and heat-related injuries occurs. Children especially are susceptible to heat injuries because they absorb more heat than adults on a hot day.

Sunburn
Sunburn is either a first or second-degree burn and is categorized by blistering and deep reddening of the skin. To treat sunburn:

  1. Calm the burn under cool water for five to ten minutes. Do not put ice on it!
  2. Soak your child in a lukewarm bath
  3. Drink lots of water

Any child under one with sunburn should be seen by a doctor immediately.

Heat-Related Injuries
There are three other types of heat-related injuries: heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

  • Heat cramps are an early warning sign that the body is having difficulty adjusting to the heat and is characterized by severe muscle pain and spasms. 
  • Heat exhaustion occurs when the body has lost fluid through heavy sweating during exercise. Symptoms include: extreme sweating, dry mouth, fatigue, and weakness. 
  • Heat stroke is the most severe of the three types of heat-related injuries and is considered a medical emergency. Signs that a child has experienced heat stroke include: high temperature (104° or higher); hot, dry, red skin; no sweating; confusion, deep breathing, and possibly a loss of consciousness.

If you suspect your child has any of these injuries, seek medical attention immediately. 

Children are usually unaware of how long they’ve been playing in the sun so pay close attention to the time. Make sure they drink plenty of fluids and take breaks in the shade often. Drinks with electrolytes such as Gatorade® brand or other sport drinks are beneficial in addition to water. And, as always, make sure they are protected with a sunscreen containing an SPF of 45 or higher.