As several parts of India continue to face severe heatwave conditions, paediatricians are warning that toddlers are increasingly showing signs of dehydration, irritability, fatigue, and appetite loss.
Dr. Ruchi Golash, paediatrician at CK Birla Hospitals, CMRI, told NDTV that young children are particularly vulnerable during extreme heat because their bodies are less efficient at regulating temperature compared to adults.
According to the doctor, toddlers generate more internal heat and absorb more heat from the environment while sweating less efficiently. Children also lose fluids faster because of their higher surface-area-to-mass ratio, increasing the risk of dehydration.
“Toddlers cannot always identify or articulate thirst cues, relying entirely on caregivers to keep them hydrated and cool,” Dr. Golash said.
Parents have reported increased irritability and food refusal among children during prolonged hot weather, she added. Other risks include viral illnesses, diarrhoea, heat exhaustion, and stomach-related issues.
The warning comes as the India Meteorological Department has issued heatwave alerts for several states. Delhi on Thursday reported its first heatstroke patient during an orange alert.
Dr. Golash advised parents to ensure children remain hydrated throughout the day, even if they do not ask for water. She recommended coconut water, lemonade, watermelon, muskmelon, yogurt, buttermilk, and light home-cooked meals for toddlers during hot weather.
She also advised avoiding heavy, oily, and spicy foods, along with food bought from outside vendors.
Parents should limit outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours and dress children in loose cotton clothing, she said. Toddlers and newborns should never be left in enclosed spaces without airflow.
Dr. Golash said children showing fever, vomiting, refusal to eat or drink, excessive sleepiness, breathing difficulty, reduced urination, dry lips, or other signs of dehydration should receive immediate medical attention.