Heatwave in India: We must protect ourselves from heatstroke, especially when many parts of India are reeling under the scorching sun. Due to the body’s inability to regulate the high temperature, conditions such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke can occur, where individuals may experience fainting, dry skin and discomfort.
Many states have declared summer vacation for schools to keep children as cool as possible and prevent them from being outside between noon and 4 pm due to the heat wave. Various health advisories have been issued for parents and schools to protect children from heat stroke in areas where summer vacations have not yet started.
Dr. Sameer Sadavarte, HOD & Senior Consultant-Pediatrics, Fortis Hospital, Mulund in conversation with Zee English shares different ways parents can keep their kids safe during summers.
“The summer is at its peak and currently, most of the states in India are facing the effects of heat wave. There has been a sudden rise in the temperature during the day time as well as at night. The heat wave has made children sensitive to heat . Illnesses while playing outside or going to school. Children are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses than adults, as the body is less efficient at regulating its temperature,” says Dr. Sadavarte.
Parents should be alert to signs that may indicate that their child is suffering from heat-related illnesses. This also includes:
– Desire to drink water or frequent thirst
– nausea
– Headache
– high body temperature
– heat Rush
– muscle cramps
High temperatures and extreme heat can make children very ill very quickly in many different ways. Dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat stroke can all result, each of which is a medical emergency. Children and the adults who care for them may become irritable because of the high temperature.
Also Read: Dehydration: Key Signs And Symptoms To Look Out For This Season
tips to beat the heat
Here are some easy steps to keep your kids safe from the heat:
Avoid outdoor gatherings
Avoid playing outdoor games during day time
– When playing outside, prefer shady areas (such as under a tree or covered area) and carry a water bottle for frequent sips
– Take several breaks during playtime
– If a child complains of excessive sweating and fatigue while playing, it is important to stop the activity and allow them to rest
– It is recommended to drink water/fluids if the child has not urinated in the last 3 hours
Avoid heavy food and cold drinks
Prefer eating healthy food instead of oily food
– If children show symptoms such as nausea, dizziness or fatigue, it is important to move immediately to a cool place
– Wear cotton and light colored clothes; avoid tight clothing
Avoid eating ice
Avoid vigorous exercise and outdoor play during the day for children and adolescents. is scheduled either before 9 a.m. or after 6 p.m.
It is advised to avoid caffeine like tea, coffee, cold drinks etc.
Never leave a child alone in a parked car as the temperature inside the car can rise very quickly.
Dr Sadavarte shared that if you feel that your child is suffering from any heat related illness, please consult the nearest health expert on priority basis.
When your child is feeling hot, keep her cool, give her a cool bath or water mist to cool her down. Swimming is another great way to keep cool while staying active.