Austin – With students returning to school in the next few weeks, many will be excited to return to the field with their friends. But while adhering to heat and many triple days next numbers, it is time to talk to our children about the signs of heat and exhaustion.
Dr. Kevin Smith, an emergency doctor at St. David Children’s Hospital with KXAN about what we and our children must search for regarding heat.
Read an edited version of the conversation below, or use the video player above to listen.
Freddy Villa: Let’s start with the basics. What are some of the main signs of heat fatigue or disease associated with heat that parents and children should be familiar with during the school day?
Dr. Kevin Smith: Well, we got to that classic Texas in August when it seems that the summer will not end. Some of the early signs I am looking for in children exposed to heat include excessive sweating, thirst, and one of the parents may not think immediately – a list trips to the bathroom. It can be a sign of dehydration. Attention to this sermon is really important.
villa: This is a great advice. How can parents talk to their children about staying safe in the temperature, especially when they are at school and not under the direct supervision?
D. Smith: Everything begins to prepare. Make sure your child is well tangible, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough rest. Equally important, taught them to listen to their bodies. If they feel tired, dizzy, or they do not want to play anymore, this is their body indicates a mistake. Encourage them to speak – select a teacher or consultant immediately if he is not fine and they need to enter inside.
villa: Are there specific groups of children who are more vulnerable to heat, and how can we make sure they get the support they need?
D. Smith: definitely. For example, children with asthma may find that the heat increases their symptoms, so they should always have access to the inhalation and know how to use it. Also, any child who suffers from chronic medical conditions – especially those who affect the kidneys or blood pressure – needs additional interest. These children should be closely monitored and removed from hot environments before any symptoms of heat exhausting begin to appear.
“One of the things I think will be important to confirm this is to see the number of times your child goes to the bathroom to urinate. One of the first signs of dryness is a decrease in urine output because the body tries to maintain the liquid.”