Dallas children at higher risk from heat: Recognize and avoid heat illnesses

Understanding the Dangers of Summer Heat for Children

Texas summers are known for their intense heat, which can be more than just uncomfortable — they can pose serious health risks, especially for children. The vulnerability of kids to heat-related illnesses is a growing concern, and understanding the reasons behind this risk is essential for keeping them safe.

Why Children Are More Susceptible to Heat Illness

Dr. Troy Smurawa, a pediatric sports medicine specialist at Children’s Health Andrews Institute for Orthopedics and Sports Medicine in Plano, explains that children are particularly at risk due to several physiological factors. Like adults, children regulate their body temperature through sweating. However, because they have a larger body surface area relative to their mass, they heat up faster and may not cool down as efficiently. Their shorter height also means they are closer to the heat rising from surfaces like concrete and asphalt, which intensifies the warmth they experience.

Another key factor is how children respond to early signs of heat illness. Adults often recognize symptoms such as dizziness or lightheadedness and take action, but children may not perceive these signals as readily. They might continue playing until the condition becomes more severe, sometimes only realizing they need fluids when they feel thirsty. This delay in recognizing symptoms can lead to more serious health issues.

The Escalation of Heat-Related Illnesses

When the body's ability to regulate its temperature is overwhelmed, heat-related illnesses can occur. A recent study from UT Southwestern Medical Center showed a 170% increase in emergency room visits for heat-related illnesses among children in Dallas and Plano between 2012 and 2023. These visits were most common during the hottest months of the year, highlighting the seasonal nature of the risk.

The progression of heat illness starts with cramping, where muscles begin to spasm due to excessive heat. This can then lead to heat syncope, where a person may faint from overheating. As the condition worsens, it can result in heat exhaustion, where the body can no longer cool itself effectively. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can escalate to the most dangerous stage: heat stroke.

Recognizing the Signs of Heat Illness

Heat stroke is significantly more dangerous than heat exhaustion. It involves a core body temperature of 104°F or higher and can impair the central nervous system, leading to confusion, seizures, or even coma. Dr. Smurawa emphasizes that while heat exhaustion can be extreme, it is not as life-threatening as heat stroke. Once the body temperature exceeds 104°F, internal organs can begin to malfunction.

Parents should be aware of the signs of heat exposure in their children, including pale or flushed skin, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and disorientation. Recognizing these symptoms early can prevent more severe outcomes.

Tips for Keeping Kids Safe During Hot Weather

To protect children from the dangers of summer heat, Dr. Smurawa recommends planning outdoor activities during cooler times of the day, such as early morning or evening. Ensuring children stay hydrated and take frequent breaks in the shade, especially during physical activity, is crucial.

Clothing choices also play a role in preventing heat illness. While cotton is breathable, it traps moisture and does not aid in cooling. Light-colored, loose-fitting, and moisture-wicking clothing is preferable. Using sunscreen is another important step, as sunburn can increase the risk of heat illness.

Other factors that can increase a child’s risk include being overweight or obese, as well as taking certain medications for colds, allergies, or attention deficit disorders. A 2009 study from Pennsylvania State University found that obese children had higher core temperatures and adapted to heat more slowly during summer exercise. In Texas, 21% of children aged 6 to 17 were classified as obese, compared to the national average of 17%.

Gradual Acclimation to Heat

For children not already acclimated to hot weather, parents should avoid exposing them abruptly to the heat. Dr. Smurawa advises gradually increasing their time outdoors over a two-week period. This allows the body to adjust to the heat safely.

By understanding the risks and taking preventive measures, parents can help ensure their children enjoy the summer without facing the dangers of heat-related illnesses.