Emergency treatment is required for heat stroke. Simple prevention strategies can be used to counteract the effects of heat. When doing prolonged heavy work or exercise, drink at least one cup of fluid every 15-20 minutes. Sunscreen may be used on children six months or older. Wear light-colored, longer clothing and a wide brim hat to reflect the sun.
Some medications produce an allergic rash on body parts exposed to the sun.
Children are at higher risk for heat related illnesses since their body temperatures rise faster, and they sweat less than adults. According to a recent study, a child 10 years or younger should drink until no longer thirsty and then drink an additional half a glass. Older children and adolescents should drink an additional full glass. Older adults may need to be reminded to drink fluids because often their sense of thirst is reduced even though they may be getting dehydrated. Hot summer weather affects everyone.