First aid: heat exhaustion and heatstroke
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These can occur when the body becomes overheated. Heat exhaustion is caused by loss of body mineral salts. Heatstroke develops when the temperature control mechanism in the brain fails.
Your child's temperature may rise above 40°C (104°F) and in extreme cases she may lose consciousness. Her skin may look and feel hot, but is dry. Your child will seem drowsy and lethargic, and may have a rapid pulse. In severe cases your child may be confused and may even lose consciousness.
- Take your child's outer clothes off and lay her down in a cool shady place.
- Call a doctor if your child's temperature is as high as 40°C (104°F) and, while you are waiting, sponge her with tepid water or wrap her in a cool wet sheet. Place a covered ice pack on her forehead, give her water to sip and direct a fan on to her body.
- Monitor her pulse rate and temperature closely. Check her temperature every minute until it lowers to 37.2°C (99°F), then stop cooling, but continue to monitor her temperature.
- If she loses consciousness, treat her as shown here. Call an ambulance.
New Babycare
Copyright © 2009 Dorling Kindersley
Text copyright © 2009 Miriam Stoppard
Posted 30.06.2010
See more in the dossier: Emergency first aid
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