Preventing Sunburns and Recognizing Signs of Heat Exhaustion in Children

Keep your child cool, healthy, and protected with this quick guide to sun safety from Dr. Art Quintanilla and the team at Rancho Mirage Pediatrics in Rancho Mirage, CA. 

Sun Safety Tips to Prevent Sunburn and Heat Exhaustion 

As the temperatures rise, they provide a great opportunity to get outside and play. This is important for children, as summer play and exploration help keep them healthy physically, mentally, and emotionally. However, it also brings along several dangers, including sunburn and heat exhaustion. In the guide below, Dr. Quintanilla and the team at Rancho Mirage Pediatrics in Rancho Mirage, CA, provide sun safety tips to help parents reduce the risk of either. 

Sunburn 

Typically, sunburn is a temporary issue, but it can create a lot of discomfort. It can also increase the likelihood of developing skin cancer. Start protecting your children from such issues with the following steps. 

1. Know the dangers: The sun is at its peak between 10 am and 4 pm. This is also when kids typically want to be outside the most. As much as possible, limit activity during these hours. Try indoor activities or, at minimum, activities that provide plenty of access to shade.
2. Use sunscreen: While they do play outside, keep them lathered in sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. It will need to be reapplied every couple of hours while sweating or swimming. 
3. Choose clothing wisely: Have your children wear clothing that covers their bodies, as well as hats and sunglasses. This can be hard during the summer months, though, as it’s so hot. Try to choose clothing that is breathable and light-colored to make it more tolerable for them. 

Heat Exhaustion 

Heat exhaustion occurs when the body’s temperature rises too high, and it can be dangerous. However, it can be prevented. Light-colored, breathable clothing is crucial, as is having your child take frequent breaks in a shaded area. Also, they should consistently drink water, even if they say they aren’t thirsty. 

It’s also important that parents recognize the signs of heat exhaustion so that they can respond effectively. The following are some of the most common indicators. 

• Weakness 
• Muscle cramps 
• Headaches 
• Excessive sweating 
• Cool and clammy skin, regardless of how hot they seem 
• Irritability 
• Feeling dizzy or faint 
• Elevated body temperature 

If you notice these signs, have your child sit in the shade or indoors. Have them drink some more fluids and use a cold washcloth or towel to help cool them down. 

Visit Dr. Quintanilla and the team at Rancho Mirage Pediatrics of Rancho Mirage, CA, for additional sun safety guidance. Call (760) 770-0000 to schedule an appointment today.