Food & Receipts

Beware of Summer Colds: Why Kids Are More Prone to Catching a Chill

The scorching summer heat can be deceiving, and many parents are caught off guard when their children fall prey to cold-induced pneumonia.

Administrator

13 July, 2024

It’s surprising to many parents that children can catch a cold during the summer. In fact, there are still many factors that can cause your child to catch a cold during the warmer months. Many parents think that colds only occur during the winter, but summer is actually when the risk of catching a cold is higher.

Summer colds caused by air conditioning

Air conditioning is a necessity during the summer months. However, many families set the temperature too low at night, and when parents sleep deeply, they may not adjust the temperature, while children kick off their blankets. Or the air conditioner may be directed straight at the child’s face. This can lead to dry mucous membranes and respiratory problems.

Misuse of air conditioners and fans can cause children to catch a cold

Colds caused by fans

It’s not just air conditioners that can cause problems. Using a regular fan on high speed throughout the night, or using a fan immediately after bathing, or using a fan while continuously wrapping a wet towel around the child can also cause colds.

Letting children soak in the tub for too long

During the summer, many children enjoy playing with water, so parents may allow their children to sit in the tub for extended periods or even play with plastic toys while bathing. Soaking in water for too long can cause children to absorb the cold, and their pores to expand, increasing the likelihood of catching a cold.

Feeding children cold food and drinks

Cold foods and drinks, including those stored in the refrigerator or served with ice, can also increase the risk of catching a cold.

Pay attention to your child’s care routine during the summer

Not wiping your child’s sweat

During the summer, children tend to be more active and sweat more. If the caregiver does not pay attention to wiping the child’s sweat, it can be absorbed back into the body, leading to a cold. This is especially true for younger children who lie down, as the sweat on their backs can be absorbed deeper into the body.

Dressing children in uncomfortable and excessive clothing

For newborns, many parents are concerned about their babies catching a cold, so they dress them in multiple layers of long-sleeved clothing even during the summer. In reality, infants generate more heat than adults, so it’s important to dress them in comfortable and breathable clothing during the warmer months.

Recognizing the signs of a summer cold in children

When a child has a cold, they may exhibit the following symptoms:

Runny nose, with visible nasal discharge.

Nasal congestion causing breathing difficulties.

Frequent sneezing.

Headache and dizziness.

Possible coughing, sore, and itchy throat.

Treating and preventing summer colds in children

Pay attention to your child’s sleep schedule: It’s important to ensure your child gets enough rest, especially during the summer when they may have a more irregular schedule due to no school. Encourage your child to maintain a consistent sleep routine.

Ensure your child is well-hydrated: For older children, remind them to drink enough water. Children tend to forget or be too engaged in play to remember to drink, so gentle reminders are important. For younger children who are breastfed, ensure they are feeding frequently and adequately. For older children, increase their intake of fruits and fluids.

If your child is exhibiting frequent coughing and signs of fatigue, take them to a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment.

To prevent summer colds in children, pay attention to the use of air conditioning and fans. Regularly clean these devices to ensure they are hygienic. Avoid letting children play with water for extended periods, and refrain from giving them very cold foods and drinks. Remember to wipe away their sweat and keep their skin dry and comfortable.

Frequently asked questions

Children’s immune systems are still developing, making them more vulnerable to infections. They are also more likely to come into close contact with other children who may be sick, especially during summer activities like camps and vacations.

Encourage good hygiene practices such as frequent hand-washing, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding touching their face. Keep them well-hydrated and ensure they get enough sleep. Additionally, maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables to boost their immune system.

Symptoms can include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, mild fever, and body aches. Keep an eye out for these signs and consult a doctor if they persist or worsen.

Summer colds are typically caused by different viruses than regular colds, and they tend to be more prevalent during the warmer months. The symptoms may also vary slightly, with summer colds often causing more congestion and sore throat discomfort.

It is generally recommended to keep your child home if they are displaying cold symptoms, especially if they have a fever or are feeling unwell. This helps prevent the spread of the illness to other children and gives your child time to rest and recover.