Beware of the big, bad weather, little ones

If your child is crying constantly, vomiting or even skipping food and sleep, it’s because of the bad weather that’s haunting the city.
Doctors say the prevailing weather will have adverse effects on infants as they have low immunity levels.

Drizzling and dull weather are considered to be harbingers of disease for infants. From common cold to gastroenteritis, infants can experience many complications, which can be hazardous to their health and rob the parents of their sleep.

“Infants have very low immunity levels. This may lead to common cold, ear infections, respiratory Infections, wheezing, asthma, atopic dermatitis, or gastroenteritis,” said Dr Shiv Kumar, consultant paediatrician, BGS Global Hospitals.

It is essential, therefore, to keep children away from infections and take preventive measures to help them cope with the weather.

“Among children, especially one-year-olds, complications can occur at any stage. Transmission of the infection is also very high, as it is difficult to stop the diseases from spreading,” he explained.

 Explaining various symptoms, he said, “Infants may suffer from a runny or blocked nose, difficulty in breathing and noise while breathing. These are the first symptoms.”

Second, children may stop eating or constantly cry for attention and have sleeping issues. Last, if a child has a stomach upset or vomits, parents must take them to the doctor. If ignored, it may lead to stomach infections or even gastroenteritis.

“In this weather, even cold food is dangerous to children. They can contract stomach and intestine infections, and sometimes even food poisoning,” he explained.

Infants also have sensitive skin and this weather can lead to dryness, itching, allergies and sometimes even atopic dermatitis.
Doctors say timely precautions can save children from contracting infections. “Simple steps can help the child from contracting these infections. Children don’t need to be packed with woolen clothing.

Two layers of cotton clothing with a cap covering the ears, gloves, and socks will protect the child from cold and respiratory problems,” he said.

Serving children warm food with vegetables and fruits is a major preventive measure. “Warm food cooked within two hours is essential for infants. While giving them a bath, it is better to give them steam inhalation and keeping windows closed.

Moisturising the child’s skin right after bath and keeping it hydrated can keep the child from experiencing itching or irritation,” he explained.