An expert discusses why heat waves are causing dehydration in children between the ages of 3 and 15

An abnormally high temperature—beyond the summertime norm—is referred to as a heat wave. As temperatures rise, the nation is seeing heat waves that put youngsters between the ages of 3 and 15—and sometimes even younger children—at risk of dehydration.

Across the nation, heat waves are having a negative impact on individuals of all ages, including fainting, lightheadedness, dizziness, and unconsciousness in both adults and children. A child’s physical and emotional well-being is enhanced when they play and exercise outdoors. However, it is not suggested for youngsters to engage in these activities in very hot weather. Children get ill from high temperatures and great heat because they might have heat exhaustion, heat cramps, dehydration (from excessive sweating), and heat stroke (a medical emergency that requires prompt attention).

When a kid is dehydrated, their body loses fluid and they experience symptoms including nausea and vomiting, headaches, lightheadedness, dry mouth, lethargy, and decreased urine production. In addition to making people more agitated and nervous, high heat may also cause dyspnea and need hospitalization. According to Dr. Sanju Sidaraddi, a pediatrician and neonatologist consultant at Motherhood Hospitals in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai

“More and more kids are showing up with dehydration, especially since last month,” Dr. Sanju said. Every week, we see around five to six people. Water consumption is often neglected by kids, particularly while they’re playing outside. You may stay hydrated and in good health by consuming plenty of water and abstaining from alcoholic or sugar-sweetened drinks.

Dehydration cases in children aged 4-10 are on the rise, according to Dr. Vrukshal Shamkuwar, Consultant Head, PICU and Paediatrics, Medicover Hospitals, Navi Mumbai. This is because of the intense heat. Children who are dehydrated may have symptoms such as fatigue, thirst, dry lips and tongue, lack of energy, and excessive heat. Dizziness, nausea, vomiting, headaches, weakness, muscular soreness, and in rare cases, unconsciousness may all be symptoms of heat exhaustion. Urge kids to periodically take pauses from playing to sip on fluids; try to have at least 13 glasses of water each day. Keep kids out of the heat and make sure they have enough water or another kind of lemonade to go with their ice chips. Think about preparing a homemade oral rehydration solution and periodically administering it to the youngster.

Dehydration may lead to complications such as seizures, brain damage, or even death. “Parents need to keep an eye on their children’s water consumption. It is essential that kids consume a minimum of ten glasses of water daily. Playing outdoors in the intense heat is not advised, particularly between 12:00 and 4:00 pm. When attending lessons or school, wear hats and caps. Children should have homemade oral rehydrating solution and wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothes made of breathable materials like cotton, according to Dr. Sanju.