Unusual high temperatures in July are called heat waves. Temperatures are rising, causing heat waves that dehydrate youngsters aged 3-15, occasionally younger.
Children and adults are fainting, dizzy, lightheaded, and unconscious from heat waves. Outdoor play and exercise improve kids’ mental and physical health. However, kids should avoid these activities in extreme temperatures. In kids, extreme heat can induce dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and heat stroke. In children, dehydration causes nausea, vomiting, lethargy, headache, lightheadedness, dry mouth, sleepiness, and decreased urine production. High heat can make everyone irritated and agitated, causing dyspnea and hospitalization.
Dr. Sanju Sidaraddi, Consultant in Pediatrics and Neonatology, Motherhood Hospitals, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, said dehydrated youngsters are rising, especially since last month. We observe 5–6 patients per week. Kids often forget to drink when playing outside. Stay hydrated and healthy by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol and sugary beverages.
According to Medicover Hospitals, Navi Mumbai Consultant Head PICU And Paediatrics Dr. Vrukshal Shamkuwar, dehydration is rising in children aged 4-10 due to the heat. Child dehydration causes weariness, thirst, dry lips and tongue, energy loss, and heat. Heat exhaustion can produce dizziness, nausea, vomiting, headaches, weakness, muscle discomfort, and unconsciousness. Encourage playtime breaks to drink 13 glasses of water daily. Avoid direct sunshine and give them adequate water or lemonade with ice chips. Consider creating and giving the child homemade oral rehydration solution occasionally.”
Brain injury, seizures, and death can result from dehydration. Parents should monitor youngsters’ water intake. Kids must consume 10 glasses of water daily. Do not play or exercise in the heat, especially from 12:00 to 4:00 pm. Wear caps and hats to school. Dr. Sanju advised children to wear comfy, light-colored cotton clothes and make their own oral rehydrating solution.
Children, especially 3-15-year-olds, are at risk from heat waves. Exercise at high temperatures can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
Outdoor play is important for kids, but heat waves require protection. Children with weariness, thirst, dry mouth, and decreased urination should be monitored by parents and caregivers.
Key takeaways for hot weather child safety:
Reduce outdoor activity during peak heat (12–4 pm).
Provide water frequently, even if kids aren’t thirsty.
Kids should wear loose, breathable clothes.
Oral rehydration solutions created at home can replace electrolytes.
If children have severe dizziness, vomiting, or confusion, get medical attention.
Parents may help their kids enjoy the outdoors without heat-related illnesses by following these steps.
