New Delhi: With temperatures climbing early across several parts of India, paediatricians are seeing a worrying increase in heat-related complaints among children, especially those in the 5-14 age group. Doctors say children are particularly vulnerable during hot weather because they often fail to recognise thirst early, spend long hours outdoors during school or play, and may not drink enough water to compensate for fluid loss. Recent reports have also flagged rising concern over dehydration and heat exhaustion in children as heatwave conditions intensify.
Doctors are now urging parents to act before mild symptoms turn serious. Dr Amit Gupta, Senior Consultant – Paediatrician & Neonatologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Noida, said children are increasingly arriving with complaints linked to heat exposure, dehydration and mild heat exhaustion. He noted that common symptoms include headache, fatigue, vomiting or nausea, dizziness, weakness, mild fever and reduced appetite, making hydration, summer safety and close monitoring essential for families during this period.
Children most at risk in summer heat
Children between 5 and 14 years are among the most affected because they are often outdoors during school hours, commute times and evening play, increasing direct exposure to high temperatures. Health experts note that children also tend to ignore thirst cues, and some replace water with sugary packaged drinks that do not hydrate the body effectively.
“Currently, we are seeing 3-4 children per day in the OPD with symptoms that can be attributed to heat exposure, dehydration, or mild heat exhaustion,” said Dr Amit Gupta. “The most common symptoms include dehydration, headache and fatigue, vomiting or nausea, mild fever, dizziness, weakness, and reduced appetite.”
Common symptoms of heat exhaustion in children
The early signs of dehydration or heat exhaustion in children can appear mild at first, but doctors warn that ignoring them may lead to worsening weakness and the need for medical care. Experts say fatigue, nausea, dizziness, irritability and poor appetite are among the warning signs parents should watch closely during hot afternoons and after outdoor activity.
Dr Amit Gupta said some children also show irritability and lethargy due to inadequate fluid intake during the hottest parts of the day. “Many children come with insufficient hydration during school hours. There is also an increased consumption of packaged sugary drinks instead of water. We see children returning from outdoor activities during peak afternoon heat with symptoms like headache, dizziness, and vomiting,” he said.
Why heat exposure is worsening
Doctors say prolonged outdoor activity, inadequate hydration, direct sunlight and poor food choices can together increase the risk of heat-related illness in children. Reports from Delhi hospitals have already pointed to a rise in dehydration-related illness among children as the summer heat intensifies, even before peak season fully sets in.
“Hot weather can put extra stress on a child’s body, especially when they spend long hours outdoors, do not drink enough fluids, or are exposed to direct sunlight for a prolonged time,” Dr Amit Gupta said. “These factors can lead to worsened dehydration and heat exhaustion.”
Essential hydration and summer safety tips
Preventing heat-related illnesses in children is largely manageable with simple daily habits:
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Encourage frequent water intake, even if the child is not thirsty
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Include natural cooling drinks such as lemon water, coconut water, and buttermilk
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Ensure children carry water bottles to school
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Dress children in light, loose cotton clothing
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Avoid outdoor activities during peak afternoon heat
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Promote indoor play and adequate rest during hot hours
Parents should also monitor for warning signs such as persistent vomiting, extreme fatigue, or dizziness, which may require immediate medical care.
Best summer foods to keep children cool
Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining hydration and energy levels during extreme heat. Experts recommend incorporating water-rich and easily digestible foods into children’s meals:
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Fresh fruits like watermelon, papaya, and oranges
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Vegetables such as cucumber and leafy greens
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Curd (yoghurt) and buttermilk for gut health and cooling
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Simple meals like dal and rice for balanced nutrition
As the heat sets in earlier and more sharply this year, doctors say parents cannot afford to overlook signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion in children. “It is important to watch for warning signs like persistent vomiting, dizziness, or extreme fatigue, which may require immediate medical attention,” Dr Amit Gupta said, stressing that awareness, hydration and timely precautions remain the best defence against summer-related illness in children.