Dr Kenta Sugiura*

On a blazing summer day with temperatures climbing over 36℃, 11-year-old Phúc participated in a football tournament. As team captain, he had trained hard for weeks, and his excitement was so intense the night before that he could barely sleep.

He started strong, scoring in both of the first two matches. But by the third game, signs of exhaustion began to show. He began to sweat profusely and to experience muscle pain. Wanting to continue, he chose not to tell his coach. Soon, he developed a headache and felt fatigued, became dazed, and found it difficult to run.

His coach, sensing something was wrong, pulled him from the game. Phúc was sweating profusely and reported dizziness, muscle pain and fatigue. As the coach gave him water, Phúc started to vomit. Observing his pale skin and rapid breathing, the coach immediately called an ambulance from Family Medical Practice (FMP).

Children are vulnerable 

Compared to adults, heatstroke in children is more common because they haven't fully developed the ability to regulate body temperature. They are particularly at risk for heatstroke when engaging in vigorous exercise in warm environments.

Preventing heatstroke in children!

The most effective way to prevent heatstroke in children is to avoid going outside or exercising in hot weather. Generally, when the temperature exceeds 32°C (90°F) or the humidity exceeds 60 per cent, the risk of heatstroke in children significantly increases. When temperatures reach extremely high levels (over 35°C), adults should consider cancelling children's sports activities.

When heading out in hot weather is unavoidable, opt for clothing made of heat-resistant materials or light colours, and have children wear hats to protect them from the sun. Additionally, staying in the shade as much as possible, drinking plenty of fluids and electrolytes, and cooling the body with ice packs can help prevent heatstroke.

 Monitor your children closely for signs of heatstroke!

There are three levels of heatstroke in children: mild, moderate, and severe:

•  Mild heatstroke exhibits symptoms such as profuse sweating, dizziness, lightheadedness and muscle pain.

•  Moderate heatstroke exhibits symptoms such as headaches, vomiting, fatigue and impaired concentration or judgment.

•  Severe heatstroke manifests as difficulty breathing, lethargy, pale skin, loss of consciousness and seizures

Children may have difficulty expressing their symptoms, so it is crucial for adults to closely monitor their condition.

For mild heatstroke, rest, cool down, and replenish fluids and salt!

Treatment for heatstroke includes rest, cooling down and taking fluids and salt. If a child shows signs of heatstroke, please have them stop exercising immediately and rest in a cool, shaded area. It is also crucial to cool areas of the body where large blood vessels are located, such as the neck, armpits, and groin. Heatstroke leads to the loss of water and electrolytes through sweating, making it essential to replenish both. It is vital to stay hydrated with sports drinks that contain a good balance of these nutrients.

In cases of moderate to severe heat stroke, seek medical attention immediately!

If moderate or severe symptoms are present, prompt medical treatment is necessary to prevent damage to the brain, liver, kidneys, and other organs – complications that could become life-threatening. Immediate medical attention is crucial in such cases.

Following the paediatrician's instructions, Phúc was rushed to the FMP and was cooled with ice packs and given intravenous fluids. Injections for pain relief and nausea were also administered while monitoring his condition. After several hours in the emergency room, his headache and fatigue began to improve. However, due to persistent nausea, he remained under observation overnight. By the following day, he had recovered enough to drink fluids, gradually resume eating, and was subsequently discharged from FMP.

Preventing heatstroke and responding quickly when symptoms arise are vital. If you notice any signs of discomfort in your child, please do not allow them to overexert themselves. When in doubt, consult a medical professional promptly. Family Medical Practice 

* Dr Kenta Sugiura is a Japanese paediatrician at Family Medical Practice Hanoi. Specialising in paediatric emergencies, he can provide care for conditions ranging from mild to severe, including illnesses, injuries, and heatstroke. Please feel free to consult him about any concerns regarding your child's health.

FMP Healthcare Group operates medical centres in major cities including HCMC, Hà Nội and Đà Nẵng, offering consultations with international doctors, check-up centres and emergency ambulance services.

Visit FMP Hà Nội 24/7 at 298I Kim Mã Street, Kim Mã Ward, Ba Đình District.