Heat exhaustion (when the body overheats) - Children

Infants (Ages 0–2)Children (Ages 3–17)Adults (Ages 10–74)Seniors (Ages 75 and Older)

What it is

During extreme temperatures or intense physical activity in a hot environment, the body may have trouble cooling itself. When the body overheats, you may have a headache, diarrhea, vomiting, or cramps in the arms, legs or stomach.

What you can do at home

What to do

Go to a cool place such as an air-conditioned or well-ventilated room or a shady spot as quickly as possible. Lie down and rest there.
If you are dizzy, lie down and raise your legs above the level of your heart (for example, put a cushion under your legs).
If you have cramps, loosen your clothing and gently massage the sore muscle.
Unless a healthcare professional has told you otherwise, drink water, an oral rehydration drink from a pharmacy (Pedialyte, Gastrolyte), or a home-made solution:
- 360 ml unsweetened orange juice
- 600 ml boiled water, cooled
- 2,5 ml (½ c. tsp) salt

Avoid

Intense physical activities for at least 12 hours.

When to seek medical attention

If you have any of these signs:

you’re dizzy;
you have diarrhea or persistent vomiting;
You have shivers or your temperature is less than or equal to 38.5 °C (101.3 °F) orally, less than 39 °C (102.2 °F) under your arm, OR 40 °C (104 °F) taken rectally.

Call 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse, or contact a healthcare professional (pharmacist, doctor, or nurse practitioner).

When to go to the hospital right away

If your temperature:

oral temperature is above 38.5 °C (101.3 °F).
underarm temperature is above 39 °C (102.2 °F).
rectal temperature is above 40 °C (104 °F).

You suddenly feel that

it’s harder than usual to stay awake or you respond less to what is going on around you;
you are agitated or confused;
you eat less, drink less, and have a hard time accomplishing your normal daily tasks.

You have had convulsions (body shaking uncontrollably).

You aren’t feeling better or you are feeling worse despite following the advice given above.

You are very thirsty and you haven’t urinated (peed) in over 12 hours.

Need help?

Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.

Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment. 

Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC. 

If you do not have a family doctor, go to https://gap.soinsvirtuels.gouv.qc.ca/en or call 811, Option 3.

Heat exhaustion (when the body overheats) - Children

What it is

What you can do at home

When to seek medical attention

When to go to the hospital right away

Need help?

See also

Gastroenteritis

Superficial Wound