Heatwaves can affect people of all ages and give rise to many health conditions like heat exhaustion and stroke. The summer heat can be unbearable and even worse for babies. This is because babies are more sensitive to temperature changes and become easily dehydrated. It is crucial to take extra care to shield your child from the heat as a heatwave approaches. Here are some tips for cooling down and protecting your infant during a heat wave.
Tips To Protect Babies From Heatwave
Avoid Exposing Them To Heat
Keeping your infant inside during the hottest hours of the day is the best defence against the heat wave. If you must go outside, attempt to do so in the early morning or later in the evening when it is cooler. Keep them in a cool place or circulate the air with a fan.
Hydration Is The Key
It is important to keep your child hydrated as they are more prone to dehydration than adults. You should ensure that your child consumes enough fluids, whether it's breast milk, formula, or water if they are over six months old. You should also monitor their diaper output to check if they are well hydrated. Refrain from giving them sugary drinks or juice as they can cause dehydration.
Choose Right Clothing
During a heatwave, it's critical to dress your kid properly. Choose natural fibres like cotton that are lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable. Stay away from synthetic materials because they trap heat and are uncomfortable. To keep them cool and reflect the sun's rays, dress them in bright colours.
Also Read: Beat The Summer Heat By Performing These 5 Yoga Poses
Do Not Skip Sun Protection
Babies have delicate and sensitive skin that can burn easily during a heatwave. Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to their hands, face, neck, and any other exposed skin. Consult with a dermatologist to choose the right sunscreen for your child. To shield their eyes and face from the sun's rays, cover your baby's head with a wide-brimmed hat and put on some sunglasses.
Cool Showers Can Help
A cold shower or bath can help manage heatwave effectively. It can help your child to cool down and get relief from the scorching heat. However, avoid using cold water and use lukewarm water as it can cause your body to shiver, which would further raise your body temperature. Use a damp cloth to wipe their forehead, neck, and arms.
Also Read: 7 Side Effects Of Heat Wave On Your Body
Build A Cool Environment For Your Child
You should keep the temperature of your room cool to provide relief to your child. Use an air conditioner, fan, or a mist humidifier to keep the room cool. You should also never leave your child in a hot car alone, even if it is for a short time. Temperatures inside a car can quickly increase, which is hazardous or even fatal for your infant.
Bottomline
It is important to monitor the temperature of your child during a heatwave. Check their temperature frequently with a thermometer and keep an eye on symptoms of overheating like red, sweaty skin, fussiness, and elevated body temperature. Consult with your paediatrician in case of complications.
