Other Possible Problems

Practicalities Health Other Possible Problems Overheating 

Children and particularly babies can overheat fast.

Heat exhaustion occurs with excessive sweating and failure to replace with liquid, or less frequently failure to sweat, because of something like the use of a waterproof sun cream, or in the case of babies because the body is not sufficiently developed to be able to sweat efficiently if at all.

High humidity is an aggravating factor, and in the case of children, lots of running around.

Severe tiredness, headache, nausea, cold and clammy skin are symptoms, or in a young baby simply inconsolable crying.

Heatstroke follows heat exhaustion. If the child's temperature has gone above 40ºc you should consult a doctor.

Children generally acclimatise in a day or two - faster than adults.

Measures to Alleviate/Avoid

• In hot climates it is a good idea to let children eat more salt than usual. (Salt depletion is another reason for fatigue and headaches.)



• Avoid drinks with caffeine, including colas, as caffeine is a diuretic.



• Avoid moving around at the hottest time of day.



• Note that where there is high humidity this may be worse after midday as humidity rises during the day.



• If possible avoid car travel in high temperatures without air conditioning.



• Throughout your stay keep a supply of cool drinks available all the time, and if possible access to swimming for cooling off.



• Invest in hats which protect the nape of the neck. This is reported a part of the body which is directly connected to the brain's systems of temperature regulation.



• Water, ideally with half a tsp salt in a pint, is recommended as a counter measure.



• Blowing on the skin, sponging down all over with cool water, and ideally placing an ice pack, or cold compress on the forehead and occasionally the nape of the neck are all helpful.



• Remember that you can get sunstroke even in the shade so when it is very hot it is best to avoid being out of doors between noon and 4pm.



• If the accommodation is too hot to be comfortable think about taking excursions on an air conditioned coach or aim for places like caves and other underground sites (remembering that it may be chilly and you will need at least jumpers).



• If you know when booking that temperatures are likely to be high, and you have a baby or young children, look for accommodation with air conditioning.