Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health coverage, offers tips to prevent dehydration in babies during the warmer months.
“According to the National Institutes of Health, babies are particularly vulnerable to dehydration because of their small body size and their bodies’ higher percentage of water than older children and adults,” said Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health.
“When left untreated, dehydration can quickly become serious, sometimes requiring hospital care.”
How to Prevent Dehydration
Taking proactive steps can help avoid dehydration in babies during hot weather. Here are some practical measures to ensure they stay hydrated:
Increase Fluid Intake
If your baby is exclusively breastfed, increase their feeds throughout the day; for formula-fed babies, offer smaller feeds more frequently. Always stick to the correct formula-to-water ratio (never dilute the formula, thinking it will provide more hydration). Provide small amounts of cool water between feeds throughout the day for babies over six months. If your baby is on solids, choose foods with high fluid content, such as watermelon, cucumbers, soups and yoghurt.
Create a Cool Environment
Keep your home’s temperature between 20-22°C. Dress your baby in loose-fitting, lightweight, breathable cotton fabrics. Avoid synthetic materials, as they can trap heat and moisture against your baby’s delicate skin, potentially leading to discomfort and heat rash.
A good rule of thumb is regularly checking your baby’s neck and chest. If these areas feel warm or damp, it’s time to adjust clothing.
Limit Time Spent Outdoors During Peak Sun Hours
Try keeping your baby out of direct sunlight. Never leave your baby in a parked car, even for a minute. When outdoors, use appropriate sun protection, including hats and baby-safe sunscreen (for infants over six months).
Know the Early Warning Signs
The best way to prevent severe dehydration is to catch it early.
Your baby can’t tell you they’re thirsty, so you’ll need to be on the lookout for these warning signs:
• Fewer wet nappies than usual (less than six wet diapers in 24 hours).
• Sunken eyes.
• Dark yellow or strong-smelling urine.
• Dry, cool skin.
• Listlessness or irritability.
• Dry lips or mouth.
• Absence of tears when crying.
• A sunken soft spot on top of the head.
If Your Baby Shows Signs of Dehydration
Keeping babies hydrated during hot weather doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require attention and consistency. Trust your parental instincts – if something seems off with your baby, it probably is. Dehydration in babies can be dangerous, so seek medical attention immediately. And remember, Affinity Junior offers inexpensive healthcare for children. Depending on the plan selected, Affinity Junior will provide your children with unlimited, managed doctor consultations, medication and hospitalisation, depending on the plan chosen.
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Author: Andrea Caknis from APC Publishers on behalf of Affinity Health.
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