Babies and children are more prone to dehydration due to their smaller bodies and fluid volume. They also sweat less, generate more heat while moving around and may not be able to express effectively when they feel hot and distressed. These factors can make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature, which can lead to heat related illness like heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Heat exhaustion and heatstroke can have negative impacts on a child’s health.

• Heat exhaustion can reduce their cognitive abilities, affect their mood and impact their social engagement.
• Heatstroke results in a child’s body not being able to regulate temperature. It is a medical emergency and can be life-threatening.

Signs and symptoms of dehydration or heat-illness

Mild symptoms include:

• darker urine and fewer wet nappies
• dry mouth and skin
• headaches and nausea in older children

Severe symptoms include:

• more irritable
• less alert, confused or increased drowsiness
• pale skin or skin that feels cold
• body is floppy or limp
• no tears when crying
• refuses to drink or is extremely thirsty

If your baby or child has mild signs and symptoms of dehydration or heat-illness, or you are worried, visit your local doctor or call Health Direct on 1800 022 222.

If your baby or child has severe signs and symptoms of dehydration or heat-illness, call Triple Zero (000).

For more information see our Hot weather and sun safety information in the Kids health hub.