Changing weather and diseases Image Credit source: Getty Images
When the weather changes, there are fluctuations in temperature, moisture in the air and viruses that spread infection become active. In such a situation, the immune system of small children is not fully developed, due to which they fall ill quickly. Sometimes due to cold wind in the morning and strong sunlight in the afternoon, sometimes due to sudden rain or increase in cold, the balance of body temperature gets disturbed. This instability causes health problems in children. When the weather changes, children’s body takes time to adjust to the new environment, hence the risk of infection increases.
In the changing season, children usually suffer from viral infections, cold, throat infection, flu, dengueDiseases like cough, fever and allergy may occur. Common symptoms include runny nose, sneezing, throat pain, body fatigue, loss of appetite and mild fever. In some cases, children may have difficulty in breathing, wheezing in the chest or vomiting and diarrhea. In such a situation, if the child becomes lethargic, does not eat milk or food, cries repeatedly or has high fever, then the pediatrician should be immediately consulted. If not treated on time, the infection may increase and the child’s immunity may further weaken.
How to take care of small children in changing weather?
Dr. Himanshu Bhadani in the Pediatric Department of Delhi AIIMS. It is said that first of all, children should be dressed according to the weather, neither too heavy nor too light. Layering clothes is better to protect from sudden changes in cold or heat. Pay special attention to cleanliness in the house, because the viruses of infection survive on most surfaces. Give lukewarm water to the child, so that the throat remains clean and the body remains hydrated.
Give them a healthy diet, which includes seasonal fruits, vegetables, pulses and milk so that immunity is strong. While taking out, keep it away from crowded or polluted places. If the weather is cold then sitting in the sun for some time is beneficial. Also, make it a habit to wash your child’s hands frequently and start treatment immediately if symptoms of cold appear.
Keep these things in mind too
Do not give cold things like ice cream or cold water to the child.
Keep proper ventilation in the room.
Let the child have complete sleep.
Do light exercise or sports daily.
Take care of the child’s cleanliness, especially the cleanliness of hands and nails.