With another heatwave expected to hit the area, keeping kids hydrated is more important than ever. Respected United Healthcare CMO Dr. Kevin Stephens stresses the need for parents to keep a close eye on their children during severe heat waves.
Vigilance is Key: Spotting the Signs of Dehydration
Dr. Stephens stresses the need of keeping an eye out for signs of dehydration in children.
Complications from severe dehydration need a prompt diagnosis. “Keep your eyes open,” he says, “and be on the lookout for even the mildest signs of dehydration.”
Kids at Higher Risk: Understanding the Vulnerability
Due to their decreased sweating capacity and increased heat generation during physical activity, children are at a greater risk of dehydration and heat-related disorders than adults.
In order to address this, Dr. Stephens suggests giving kids plenty of water and hydrating meals.
Quenching the Thirst: Hydration Guidelines
Dr. Stephens says that the quantity of water a kid needs to drink depends on many variables, including the child’s age, gender, environment, and degree of physical activity.
Every fifteen minutes, he recommends that kids drink four ounces of water. Watermelon is a popular choice for hydration, but ice cubes, popsicles, jello, and other fruits may all do the trick.
If you are nursing or bottle-feeding your infant, you should not offer them water.
Protecting Little Ones: Beating the Heat Safely
Dr. Stephens recommends that parents not let their children play outside in the heat for long periods of time. It’s crucial to keep an eye out for warning signs and take preventative measures.
Dry lips, no tears while crying, sunken eyes, and a reduction in the frequency of dirty diapers in newborns are all indications to look out for.
Taking Action: Treating Heat Illnesses
Dr. Stephens recommends taking prompt action, including drinking and getting medical attention, if you worry that your kid may be experiencing heat-related sickness. The primary priority should be taking immediate action to ensure their safety.
Stay Hydrated, Stay Safe
Protecting our kids from the heat is a top priority right now. We can protect our children from the hazardous consequences of high temperatures if we stay alert, give them enough to drink, and recognize the early warning signals. Let’s make sure they stay cool and rejuvenated all summer long.
