The sweltering summer heat is upon us. We often think of the basics for our kids, like sunscreen and a water bottle. But when the temperatures rise, knowing how to spot the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke is critical to their health and safety.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke exist on a spectrum of heat-related illnesses, ranging from mild and treatable at home to an extreme emergency. Both share related symptoms, but there are some differences.

"Symptoms in children may be more difficult to identify as they can't always tell us what they are feeling, says Amber Brown Keebler, MD, Nebraska Medicine pediatrician. "Risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke is increased with prolonged exercise, particularly in hot environments and prolonged exposure to hot and humid temperatures. If the signs and symptoms are identified, it is important to cool down their body temperature immediately."

Causes of heat-related illness:

Symptoms of heat exhaustion are essential to recognize as they can lead to a more dangerous, life-threatening form of heat illness called heat stroke. Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or do not improve with intervention within 30 minutes.

Heat stroke (or sunstroke) is a life-threatening emergency that occurs when the body creates more heat than it can release. Heat stroke must be treated immediately. The signs of heat stroke may look similar to heat exhaustion but with a few differentiations:

If you suspect your child has heat stroke, call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately.

Heat illnesses are nothing to ignore or push through. Babies, children, and older adults are at the most significant risk. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are preventable with the proper safety actions:

Read more about children staying hydrated while playing sports, summer injury prevention tips and ways to keep your summer safe.

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Heat exhaustion and heat stroke in children: Symptoms and prevention - Nebraska Medicine