Summer is the perfect time for children to enjoy the great outdoors and engage in fun activities such as swimming, hiking, biking, and camping.

However, the warm weather and extended daylight hours also bring with them various health challenges that can affect children.

Here are some common summer sicknesses among children:.

Sunburn

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), getting sunburned in childhood puts individuals at a higher risk of developing skin cancer as adults. Sunburn occurs when the skin gets damaged by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Symptoms of sunburn include redness, pain, itching, and peeling skin.

Dehydration

During the summer, children are more likely to get dehydrated due to sweating, increased activity levels, and high temperatures. Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in.

Symptoms of dehydration include dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness, headache, and dark urine.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is a condition that occurs when the body overheats, usually due to exposure to high temperatures.

Children who spend too much time in the sun or engage in strenuous activities without adequate water breaks are more prone to heat exhaustion. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include weakness, headache, nausea, confusion, and rapid heartbeat.

Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a severe form of heat illness that can be life-threatening if not treated immediately. It occurs when the body’s temperature regulatory system fails, and the body temperature rises to dangerous levels.

Children who are left in hot cars or are exposed to high temperatures for extended periods are more susceptible to heatstroke. Symptoms of heatstroke include high fever, rapid heartbeat, breathing difficulties, confusion, and loss of consciousness.

Drowning

Summer is a time for water fun, but it can also be dangerous for unsupervised children. Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death among children aged 1-4 years in the United States.

Children who are not proficient swimmers, swim alone, or are unsupervised near water are at a higher risk of drowning.

Insect Bites and Stings

During the summer, children are more likely to be outdoors, and this exposes them to various insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, bees, and wasps. Insect bites and stings can cause allergic reactions, swelling, itching, and pain.

Severe allergic reactions can be life-threatening.

Food Poisoning

Summer is a time for barbeques, picnics, and outdoor dining. However, warm temperatures and improper food handling can lead to food poisoning.

Children who consume contaminated food can experience symptoms such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, and fever.

Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac

Children who spend time outdoors in wooded areas or camping may come into contact with poison ivy, oak, or sumac. These plants contain oils that can cause a skin rash. Symptoms of a rash include redness, itching, blisters, and swelling.

Swimmer’s Ear

Swimmer’s ear is a common ear infection that occurs when water gets trapped in the ear canal. Children who swim in pools, lakes, or oceans are more likely to develop swimmer’s ear. Symptoms include ear pain, itching, redness, and discharge.

Allergies

Summer is a time for increased outdoor activities, and exposure to pollen, dust, mold, and other allergens can trigger allergic reactions in children. Symptoms of allergies include sneezing, runny nose, watering eyes, and itching.

Conclusion

Summer is a fun time for children, but it’s important to be aware of the common health challenges that come with the season.

With proper preventive measures, such as staying hydrated, using sunscreen, avoiding insect bites, and wearing protective clothing, children can have a safe and healthy summer.