Sun Safety
By Rachel Ofo
One of the joys of living in Thailand is the year-round warmth and sunshine, and that means lots of outdoor time where safety is a priority for parents. We want our children to freely enjoy themselves, but we also don’t want to be reckless. As the temperatures increase, the risk of heat-related illnesses increases as well. Some steps to take to avoid any issues include drinking plenty of water; wearing light, breathable clothing; applying/reapplying sunscreen; and not covering baby strollers and car seats. One study revealed that even covering a baby's stroller with a light cloth increased the temperature in the stroller by 10°C in just 30 minutes (1).
Some have experienced heat-related illnesses in the past. I’ve had a few heat-related scares, one resulting in a paramedic being called in the middle of a hike up a mountain. It can come like a thief; even within our own bodies, sometimes we don’t realize anything is wrong until it’s too late. So, noticing it in our children can be tricky.
Let’s have a look at a few common heat-related illnesses, how to spot them, and how to treat them in an emergency. This information is great not just for parents to read but to share with nannies and caregivers.
Heat exhaustion
Although people aged 65 and over and infants are at a higher risk of heat exhaustion, nobody is exempt from it, especially during hotter months. A few signs to look out for include
- heavy sweating,
- flushed or pale skin,
- fatigue,
- weakness,
- dizziness,
- nausea,
- vomiting,
- muscle cramps,
- headaches, and
- feeling unusually thirsty or restless.
It's essential to recognize these symptoms early to prevent progression to more severe heat-related illnesses. Taking immediate steps to cool down, such as moving to a shaded area, drinking fluids, and removing excess clothing, can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical attention is crucial.
Heat stroke
People sometimes confuse heat stroke and heat exhaustion. However, there are a few key differences. The main and most important difference between the two is that heat exhaustion can be treated right then and there by taking a few steps to cool down and hydrate. Heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention (2). Some signs to pay attention to are
- high body temperature (above 40°C),
- hot and dry skin,
- rapid breathing,
- flushed appearance,
- irritability or confusion,
- vomiting, and
- seizures.
A person suffering from heat stroke may also exhibit weakness, lethargy, or loss of consciousness.
It's critical to act promptly if any of these symptoms are observed, as heat stroke can be fatal. For instances like this, it is important to know the emergency numbers in Thailand. It’s also recommended to know and save the emergency number for a nearby hospital.
In an emergency, call:
191
1155 for an English-speaking operator
1669 for an ambulance
Heat syncope (fainting)
Signs of heat syncope in babies and children include
- lightheadedness,
- dizziness,
- weakness,
- fatigue,
- nausea, and
- fainting.
They may also exhibit pale skin and a rapid pulse. Heat syncope typically occurs after prolonged standing or sudden changes in temperature, leading to decreased blood flow to the brain.
Immediate action should be taken to prevent injury if someone faints due to heat syncope. This includes laying them down in a cool, shaded area, elevating their legs, and providing fluids if they are conscious. If symptoms continue, seek medical attention.
Heat rash and sunburn (3)
Heat rashes and sunburns are a bit easier to spot. This is because instead of asking your child a million questions they may not understand or looking for signs you may not be able to see, rashes and burns are bright and visible.
There are many natural and modern ways parents go about preventing heat rashes and sunburns, but sunscreen or sunblock is the most reliable. Professionals recommend applying at least SPF 30 (not on babies under six months). However, it’s not just about applying some sunscreen and sunblock—applying enough is essential too. It’s important to follow the listed instructions.
A bit of research is also needed when deciding whether to use chemical sunscreens (also referred to as “sunscreen”) or physical sunscreens (also referred to as “sunblock”). Along with the sunscreens, always remember to carry a hat for your child and high-quality sunglasses, as eyes can also suffer sun damage.
Signs of heat rash in babies and children include red, itchy skin with small raised bumps, often occurring in areas covered by clothing.
Sunburn symptoms include
- red, painful skin,
- swelling,
- blistering, and
- peeling.
Both conditions can cause discomfort and irritability in children. It's essential to keep affected areas clean, cool, and dry for heat rash, while sunburns may require soothing creams and fluids like aloe vera gel.
Ultimately, staying informed and flexible are the best tools you can have. This means understanding the signs, symptoms, treatments, and preventive strategies to avoid any mishaps. These include staying hydrated, dressing appropriately, and avoiding excessive heat exposure.
Finally, understand that while you’re navigating the streets of Thailand on a hot day, it’s OK to make a stop. A quick blast of a 7-Eleven aircon won’t delay you too much. Even grabbing an ice cream from the man on the bike may help everyone out. And remember that with everything going on around us, our priority is our children. Keeping an eye on the little ones will help us spot problems, even before they do. Have fun, and stay safe!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Photos from Canva.
References
- Actman Becker, H. (2023) The Dangerous Stroller Mistake You May Be Making. Parents. parents.com/baby/all-about-babies/the-dangerous-stroller-mistake-youre-probably-making/
- Beaumont Health (2024) Know the Difference Between Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion. beaumont.org/health-wellness/blogs/know-the-difference-between-heat-stroke-heat-exhaustion
- American Academy of Dermatology Association (2023) Sunscreen FAQs. aad.org/media/stats-sunscreen#
About the Author
Rachel Ofo moved from the US to Bangkok in 2016 and spent six and a half years there. She has a daughter, whom she loves dragging around on various adventures like hikes and fishing trips. In her free time, she enjoys reading, watching movies, and trying new restaurants. She also enjoys being out in nature.