According to Dr. Sudhir U, Consultant - Pediatrician and Neonatologist, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, E-city, Bangalore (India), summer can pose many dangers to children's health, especially when high temperatures lead to heat and dehydration. Children are more susceptible to the effects than adults because their bodies heat up rapidly and become dehydrated through sweat.
Here are some tips to help protect your child during hot summer days:
Keeping children hydrated
Water is an important factor in helping children stay healthy in the summer. Parents should encourage children to drink water regularly, even when not thirsty. Drinks such as coconut water and fresh fruit juice are also good choices. Avoid caffeinated and sugary drinks, as they can increase the risk of dehydration.
Wear light and cool clothes
Let your child wear light, loose cotton clothes to help the child's body cool down and easily get rid of sweat. This clothing protects children from heat without increasing body temperature.
Reasonable outdoor activity schedule
Parents should avoid letting children play outdoors during peak hours from 12 noon to 4 pm. Instead, early morning or evening is a good time for outdoor activities. When playing outdoors, let your child rest in a cool place to reduce body temperature.
Use sunscreen
Sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher is necessary to protect young skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. Parents should apply ice cream before children go out to prevent sunburn and heatstroke.
Balanced diet
A diet rich in water and vitamins such as watermelon, cucumber, orange, grape and green vegetables helps hydrate the body. Avoid feeding your child available sweets and instead, make a nutritious fruit ice cream yourself.
Recognize signs of heatstroke
Signs of sunburn in children include sudden increase in body temperature, rapid breathing, dizziness and fainting. If there are any signs, parents should take their children to a cool place and seek immediate medical help.
Note
Dr. Sudhir U said that summer is a great time for children to play, but it also has many potential risks to their health, especially when the temperature rises. To protect children from heat and dehydration, parents need to proactively take preventive measures such as encouraging children to drink enough water, choosing appropriate clothing and avoiding outdoor activities during peak hours.
By taking good care of them, parents can help their children enjoy summer safely and healthily. If your child has any symptoms of sunburn, seek help from a doctor to avoid dangerous complications.
