Is Your Child Safe This Summer? Doctors Reveal 4 Illnesses Every Parent Must Watch For! (Image Credits: iStock)
As temperatures soar during the summer months, children are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of excessive heat. Unlike adults, young children have a harder time regulating their body temperature, making them more prone to heat-related illnesses. "Excessive heat can take a serious toll on a child's body and brain," warns Dr Siddharth Madabhushi, Consultant Neonatologist and Paediatrician, Ankura Hospital for Women and Child, Pune. "It can lead to headaches, dizziness, irritability, and in severe cases, heatstroke or even seizures." Prolonged sun exposure without proper hydration can be dangerous, affecting both their physical and mental well-being.
While summer is a time for outdoor fun, vacations, and play, it also brings a host of health risks for children. Factors like extreme heat, sweating, reduced water intake, and exposure to germs make kids more susceptible to seasonal illnesses. "Children's immune systems are still developing, making them less capable of fighting off infections that adults may easily overcome," explains Dr Madabhushi. Increased outdoor activities, crowded summer camps, swimming in public pools, and eating street food all heighten the chances of illnesses. Parents need to remain alert to early signs of trouble and act quickly.
4 Common Summer Illnesses in Children
1. Food Poisoning:
Eating contaminated food or drinking impure water can easily cause food poisoning in children during summer. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, and fever. "Food spoils faster in the heat, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses," says Dr. Madabhushi. "Always ensure children eat fresh, properly cooked meals and avoid food from unreliable sources."
2. Dehydration:
Kids often forget to drink enough water while playing, leading to dehydration. Common signs are dry lips, reduced urination, fatigue, and dizziness. "Parents must proactively offer fluids, even if children claim they are not thirsty," advises Dr Madabhushi. Including hydrating fruits like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges can also help.
3. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs):
Dehydration and poor hygiene can lead to UTIs, especially in the summer heat. "Painful urination, frequent urges to pee, and fever are warning signs," he notes. Teaching children proper hygiene habits and ensuring regular water intake are key preventive steps.
4. Eye Infections (Conjunctivitis):
Swimming in contaminated pools or touching your eyes with dirty hands can cause infections like conjunctivitis. Symptoms include redness, itching, watery discharge, and light sensitivity. "Use protective goggles when swimming and encourage regular hand washing," recommends Dr. Madabhushi.
Precautionary Measures to Keep Children Safe
- Stay Hydrated: "Children must drink fluids frequently to prevent dehydration," stresses Dr. Madabhushi. Offer water, coconut water, lemon water, and fresh juices throughout the day.
- Dress Light: Choose light-coloured, breathable clothing to help the body stay cool.
- Sun Protection: Apply a paediatrician-approved sunscreen and limit outdoor activities to cooler hours.
- Safe Eating Habits: Stick to home-cooked meals and avoid street food and contaminated water.
- Good Hygiene: Teach children to wash their hands frequently and maintain personal cleanliness, especially after outdoor play.
- Prompt Medical Attention: "If your child shows signs of any illness, do not delay consulting a paediatrician," urges Dr. Madabhushi.
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