Heat Stroke and Hydration

The heat wave continues. It is important to drink water throughout the day every day. However, drinks that are excessively cold or foods such as ice cream and other foods that contain lots of sugar can lead to loss of appetite or summer fatigue.  

Heat Stroke and Hydration

How does heat stroke occur? 
When exercising, your body warms up and you start to sweat. It prevents itself from overheating by releasing heat from the surface of the skin and by evaporating the sweat to lower the body temperature.

◉When there is risk of heat stroke:
・High temperatures make it difficult for heat to be released from the skin.
・High humidity makes it hard for the sweat to evaporate.
・Dehydration causes reduced circulation in the body, making it difficult to release heat.
・With a sudden increase in temperature, the body isn’t used to the heat so it doesn’t release the heat well.

◉Four key points to prevent heat stroke:
①Check the temperature and weather warnings frequently
・Refrain from outdoor activities during high temperatures, high humidity, or when the heat index indicates "Caution", "Extreme Caution", or "Danger". 
②Hydrate in advance
・Small children might not say when they're thirsty. Hydrate them before going out, before playing, and frequently in small sips thereafter.
③Get used to the heat 
・Staying indoors because it is hot outside increases the risk of heat stroke because the body cannot get used to the heat. Play outside in moderation to get used to the heat.
④Don’t overexert
・Even if children seem fine, if their faces are flushed and they're sweating profusely, it indicates their body temperature is rising. They should rest in a cool place and drink water immediately.

◉If you suspect heat stroke
Move the child to a cooler place, loosen the clothing to improve ventilation, and lay them down with their head slightly lowered. Give them an electrolyte drink containing salt and sugar, in small sips frequently.

 

Common infectious diseases during the summer

The following diseases are caused by viral infections. They're highly contagious, so it's crucial to see a doctor.
◉Herpangina:
The symptoms include sudden fever, sore throat, blister-like bumps in the mouth and mouth ulcers. If the symptoms are mild, the fever will resolve within 1–4 days. 
◉Pharyngoconjunctival Fever (also known as “swimming pool fever”):
It can be transmitted in swimming pools and the symptoms include fever that lasts from 3–5 days, sore throat, red eyes and pink eye. Eat easily digestible food.
◉Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease:
The symptoms include rashes on the palm and back of foot, mouth ulcers and sometimes fever. Eat foods that are easy to swallow.

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Throughout the year, ELC has integrated “Tea Time'' into the daily schedule. Also, at each campus, we always reference the heat index (WBGT) from the Ministry of Environment’s Heat Illness Prevention Information. On days when the index reaches “danger”, classes are held indoors. When playing outside, hats are required and there are water breaks in the shade to take care of the children’s health.

 

The K class students may get so caught up in playing that they forget to drink. For that reason, we remind them to drink frequently. The staff will not only tell them to drink water but also ensure that they drink enough by checking their water bottles. 

After outdoor play in the summer, they drink sports drinks based on how much they have sweated. Some children note the importance of rehydration after sweating, while others enjoy savoring their sports drinks.

The hot weather continues every day. If you have any concerns about your children, please let us know. Let's enjoy the summer safely and comfortably, wearing breathable clothing and paying close attention to our health.