Heat Stroke Treatment for Children in Tampa, FL

Heat stroke is a medical condition that can develop from untreated heat exhaustion. The symptoms of heat exhaustion in children are:

• Elevated body temperature, usually less than 104˚ Fahrenheit
• Cool, clammy skin despite the heat
• Goose bumps
• Fainting, dizziness or weakness
• Headache
• Increased sweating
• Increased thirst
• Irritability
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea and/or vomiting

Children may be at higher risk if they:

• Are overweight or obese
• Are taking certain medications
• Have a sunburn
• Are sick

If heat exhaustion is not treated, it can progress into heat stroke, which may exhibit the following symptoms in children:

• Body temperature rises dangerously high – above 104˚ Fahrenheit
• Absence of sweating
• Confusion, disorientation
• Flushed, hot and dry skin (skin may also be damp or wet)
• Loss of consciousness
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Rapid heartbeat and breathing
• Severe headache
• Seizures
• Weakness and/or dizziness

Recovery time for heat stroke is variable. For most people, symptoms start to improve after 30 to 60 minutes with proper treatment. However, sensitivities to high temperatures may last for several weeks or even a few months. After recovering from heat stroke, it is vital to avoid hot weather and heavy exercise until notified by a doctor that it is safe to resume normal activities.

Yes, doctors can treat heat stroke in children. Pediatricians are well-known as the best healthcare providers for children and are experienced at communicating with and treating children. Pediatricians commonly treat heat illnesses in children, including both heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If your child is exhibiting symptoms of heat stroke, come to Julia Barriga, MD, for professional care. However, if your child has severe symptoms of heat stroke, take them to the emergency department immediately.

Yes, heat stroke can be serious. If not treated in a timely manner, heat stroke can quickly lead to a life-threatening situation. Prolonged periods of high body temperatures (over 104ºF) can cause organ failure, brain damage and may even be fatal.

To help protect kids from heat stroke:

• Teach children to always drink plenty of liquids before and during activities in hot, sunny weather, even if they do not feel thirsty
• Kids should use sunscreen when outdoors and wear light-colored, loose clothing on hot days
• Limit outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, especially on hot, humid days
• Teach kids to come indoors, rest, and hydrate right away whenever they feel overheated, which includes feeling warm, tired, thirsty or dizzy

If your child is showing symptoms related to heat stroke, come to Julia Barriga, MD. Our kind and compassionate pediatricians are experienced in treating heat stroke and can help your little one feel better, sooner. Contact us today to book an appointment, or visit our clinic conveniently located at 5001 East Busch Blvd, Tampa, FL 33617. Our clinic is open 6 days a week: Monday through Thursday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Friday from 8:30 AM to 1 PM, and Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM. We serve patients from Tampa FL, Terrace FL, Thonotosassa FL, Lutz FL, Greater Carrollwood FL, Lake Magdalene FL, Westchase FL, and Town ‘N’ Country FL. Looking forward to serve you!