PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Doctors advised that children should stay hydrated and consume hygienic food during the summer with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius to stay safe from heat-related ailments. They noted that the rise in mercury levels has increased cases of loo-related ailments and diarrhoea among children. To combat these challenges, doctors urged parents to ensure that their children take necessary precautions.
The medical superintendent at Community Health Centre (CHC), Raipur, Dr P S Rawat said that the incidence of diarrhoea, dehydration and vomiting has risen among children currently as the mercury level rises. The outpatient department (OPD) has seen an increase of five to 10 per cent in these cases among children. Symptoms observed in affected children include nausea, vomiting, and loose stools. Rawat attributed this to the difference between body temperature and environmental temperature. To prevent these conditions, he advised parents to keep their children well-hydrated with fluids such as juice and oral rehydration salts (ORS) and to minimise their outdoor activities during peak heat hours, especially from 11 AM to 2 PM.
“As the mercury levels rise, incidences of heat stroke, vomiting, excessive sweating and other ailments become common,” said, a pediatrician at Shri Mahant Indiresh Hospital, Dr Vishal Kaushik. “To prevent these issues, children should avoid unnecessary outdoor activities. If they must go outside, they should stay well-hydrated and carry hats or umbrellas for protection. Hydration is essential during this season.”
Another pediatrician working at Altrus Hospital, Dr Piyush Chaudhary said that the rise in temperatures has led to an increase in cases of diarrhoea among children, with OPD visits for this condition rising by 20 to 30 per cent. He explained that during summer, the chances of water contamination increase, which can lead to diarrhoea. “Due to this, children suffer from symptoms such as fever, watery stools and colds. They should drink clean water and stay adequately hydrated,” he added.
