Keeping it Cool: Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses in
Kidssunscreen and skin protection, another warm weather danger
is often overlooked -- heat-related illnesses. Children and the
elderly are most susceptible to these illnesses, and according
to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an
average of 300 people die annually from excessive heat exposure
in the United States. The three types of heat-related illnesses
are heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Heat cramps
are the least serious of the three, and consist of muscle pains
or spasms in the arms, legs, or abdomen that usually occur
during strenuous activity. The CDC believes they are most likely
caused by low salt levels in the muscles due to excessive
sweating, but can also be a sign of heat exhaustion. Heat cramps
do not always require medical attention. The CDC offers the
following tips to treat your child if he is suffering from heat
cramps: - Stop all activity and sit in a cool place. - Drink
clear juice or a sports beverage.