Summer is already in full swing and summer heats seem to be getting worse each year. This period is extremely dangerous for new-borns, as babies don’t regulate their body temperature as effectively as older children and adults do. Therefore you have to be extra careful to keep their temperature in check.
It gets worse!
Extreme temperatures and heat stress are among the leading suspected causes of sudden infant death syndrome, according to a research conducted by Bradley Thach, published at the PubMed Central (PMC). Therefore, since babies are more susceptible to heat stress, taking extra care to prevent this issue is crucial.
In this article, we will give you a couple of expert tips on how to protect your children from heat-related illnesses.
Use the Air Conditioner
The most obvious and the most effective solution is using your AC to regulate the room temperature. Some parents are too concerned about other health implications of using an AC, but the benefits far outweigh the risks. The leading concern parents express is microorganisms, bacteria, and allergens that the AC can spread. However, if you submit your AC unit to regular maintenance, there’s nothing to worry about. In fact, AC units can help keep allergens and other dangerous microorganisms out of our homes. You can learn more about it here: http://www.hughesairco.com/breathe-cleaner-air-at-home/
Dress Your Baby Appropriately
Whether they are at home sleeping or playing out in the open, a onesie is the perfect choice of attire for an infant during the summer. You can even strip everything but the diaper and cover them with a thin blanket. According to Thach, the research data claiming that heat is a suspected cause of SIDS comes from countries where it is customary to dress infants in layers. Therefore, try not to dress them in layers of clothing during the summer, but go for a lightweight, thin alternative.
Make Sure They Stay Hydrated
Two major symptoms of dehydration are tearless cries and dry diapers. You should pay special attention to keeping infants properly hydrated during the hot summer days. However, while older kids should stay hydrated by drinking water, you should avoid giving water to infants as they cannot process it. This may result in seizures at worst. Instead, don’t stray away from breast milk or formula.
Never Leave Your Infant in a Car
Many parents think that leaving their baby in the car while they run out to the store to quickly grab something is harmless, while in fact, it can lead to a heat stroke. Infants are most at risk as their bodies heat 3 to 5 times faster than adults due to the fact that their bodies have less water in the reserve.
According to childsafetyeurope.org, 26 cases of heat stroke occurred when children were left in the car between 2007 and 2009 in France and Belgium. Out of these cases, 7 had a fatal outcome. The temperature in the car can rise up to 15 degrees Celsius every 15 minutes, and opening the windows does not help. Heat stroke can occur even if the temperature outside is just 22 degrees Celsius.
Keep Them Away from the Sun
Both you and your baby should avoid peak sun hours, meaning from 10 in the morning until 2 in the afternoon. If you do have to go outside, make sure to stay in the shade and away from direct exposure to the sun. Again, make sure to properly dress your baby in materials like light cotton that covers their skin completely. The perfect attire for going out would have light, loose pants and a long-sleeve top. Also, keep their head protected with a wide hat and polarized sunglasses.
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