August 25, Colombo (LNW): Parents have been urged to take extra precautions to protect children from dehydration and heat-related illness as high temperatures persist across Sri Lanka and the school holidays give youngsters more opportunities to spend time outdoors.
Specialist paediatrician Dr Deepal Perera of Lady Ridgeway Hospital said children were particularly vulnerable to the effects of prolonged heat, especially when taking part in sports, playing outdoors or remaining in direct sunlight for extended periods.
He cautioned that strenuous activity in hot weather can place considerable strain on the body. In severe cases, excessive heat exposure and dehydration can progress to heat-related shock and affect vital organs, including the brain and heart.
According to Dr Perera, early warning signs of dehydration can include headaches, vomiting, body aches, unusual tiredness, drowsiness, reduced appetite and dark-coloured urine. Parents should pay attention to such symptoms rather than waiting for a child to complain of severe thirst.
Keeping children adequately hydrated is particularly important when they are active outdoors. While plain water should remain the main source of fluid, Dr Perera said children could also be given suitable natural drinks and nourishing fluids such as king coconut water, Jeewani, fresh fruit or lime juices, porridge and soups.
He also advised parents to limit children’s exposure to intense sunlight, particularly during the hottest parts of the day. Loose, lightweight cotton clothing can help keep children comfortable, while hats should be used when they need to be outdoors.
Regular breaks in shaded and cooler surroundings are equally important, he said, particularly for children involved in prolonged outdoor activities. Parents should encourage youngsters to rest before they become exhausted and ensure that they have easy access to drinking water.
The warning takes on added importance during the school holidays, when children may spend longer periods playing outdoors or taking part in activities away from the usual structure and supervision provided by school.
Dr Perera therefore called on parents and other caregivers to remain alert to changes in children’s behaviour and physical condition, particularly during periods of intense heat, and to make hydration and protection from excessive sun exposure part of their daily holiday routine.