The different phases of heat illness are named: heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.  Heat cramps and heat exhaustion can typically be treated at home, but heat stroke is a serious condition that needs emergency medical treatment immediately.  Children are at a higher risk for heat-related illness because they adjust more slowly than adults to environmental heat.  Children also produce more heat than adults, and sweat less.  Most children do not think to stop and rest while playing, or to take a drink of water which puts them at higher risk.

The signs of heat cramps are:

• Severe, sometimes disabling, cramps that typically begin suddenly in the hands, calves, or feet
• Hard, tense muscles

The signs of heat exhaustion are:

• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Excessive thirst
• Muscle aches and cramps
• Weakness
• Confusion or anxiety
• Drenching sweats, often accompanied by cold, clammy skin
• Slowed or weakened heartbeat
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Agitation

If heat exhaustion occurs, move the victim to a cool place, keep laying down with legs straight elevated 8-12 inches.  Cool the victim with ice packs on their armpits, groin and neck.  Give the victim cold water if they are conscious.  If improvement is not seen within 30 minutes, seek emergency medical help.

The signs of heat stroke are:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Fatigue
• Hot, flushed, dry skin
• Rapid heart rate
• Decreased sweating
• Shortness of breath
• Decreased urination
• Blood in urine or stool
• Increased body temperature (104 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit)
• Confusion, delirium or loss of consciousness
• Convulsions

Heat stroke is a serious heat illness that could be fatal if not taken care of in a timely manner.  Heat stroke can occur without previous signs of heat exhaustion.  If any of the signs are present, seek medical attention immediately.

Heat stroke can be prevented by drinking plenty of fluids, such as water or sports drinks, during outdoor activities.  Be sure to dress in light layers of clothing with light colors.  Take plenty of rests in cool areas, trying to play at the cooler times of day, like in the morning or later at night.  Be sure you are protected by sunscreen and hats.  Get children used to the heat by increasing their time spent outdoors.

For more information, visit these websites:

http://www.cdc.gov/nasd/docs/d001701-d001800/d001702/d001702.html

http://www.webmd.com/content/article/87/99468.htm

http://pediatrics.about.com/cs/safetyfirstaid/a/sports_injuries_2.htm

http://pediatrics.about.com/od/summersafety/a/heat_illness.htm

http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/understanding-heat-related-illness-symptoms

http://www.childrenshospital.org/az/Site996/mainpageS996P0.html