Expert urges parents to watch for hidden summer health risks in children

As summer temperatures rise in Qatar, children face hidden health risks that can escalate rapidly if parents fail to recognize the warning signs. Dr. Ahmed Al Hammadi, Chair of Pediatric Medicine at Sidra Medicine in Doha, warns that dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke can develop within minutes of prolonged exposure to extreme heat.

Children are more vulnerable than adults because their bodies generate more heat during physical activity and are less efficient at regulating temperature. Infants and young children are particularly at risk as they rely on adults to ensure they stay hydrated and protected from prolonged heat exposure.

The most common heat-related conditions include dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and, in severe cases, heat stroke, according to Dr. Al Hammadi. He advises against waiting for children to complain of thirst before offering fluids, emphasizing that the habit of steady drinking throughout the day is crucial. Early signs of dehydration include thirst, dry mouth, reduced and darker urine, and low energy. In babies, fewer wet nappies and irritability may indicate dehydration.

Parents must distinguish between heat exhaustion and potentially life-threatening heat stroke. Heat exhaustion symptoms include thirst, tiredness, dizziness, nausea, heavy sweating and cool, clammy skin. Heat stroke is more severe, characterized by confusion, drowsiness, seizures, loss of consciousness, hot dry skin and the cessation of sweating.

If a child shows signs of confusion or unusual behavior after being in the heat, Dr. Al Hammadi urges parents to treat it as an emergency. Seek medical attention if a child cannot keep fluids down due to persistent vomiting, has a persistent fever after heat exposure, shows signs of moderate to severe dehydration, or fails to improve after being moved to a cool environment and given fluids.

Emergency care is necessary if a child becomes faint, extremely tired, loses coordination, develops a severe headache, breathes rapidly or deeply, experiences a seizure or loses consciousness.

Dr. Al Hammadi emphasizes that prevention is key, urging parents to trust their instincts and seek help if a child appears seriously unwell. He stresses that hydration is non-negotiable, sunscreen is essential but not cosmetic, and constant supervision around water is mandatory. By practicing these preventive measures consistently, families can ensure summer remains safe and enjoyable for their children.