Sunburn

Sun protection is key if your little one wants to run about!

Youngsters have delicate skin that burns easily, so sun protection is important, even on a cloudy day. Prevention is key – use plenty of sun cream, keep your child’s back, arms and neck covered, and encourage him to wear a hat to shield his face.

For sunburn, cool the skin with cool water, then apply aloe vera or calamine lotion. Extra drinks help combat dehydration. If your baby seems poorly with sunburn seek medical advice. If he seems in pain and you decide to give him some children’s liquid paracetamol or ibuprofen, always read the label.

Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that means your child’s temperature control system isn’t working, and he is no longer sweating to lose heat. If you suspect heatstroke, call an ambulance. Signs that your baby has sunstroke include: he is very hot (a temperature of 39.5°C or more), with hot, dry, red skin; he may also be restless, confused and breathless; or he may have a headache or begin to vomit.

Eventually he’ll lose consciousness, so don’t waste a moment. If you think it’s sunstroke, call for an ambulance. Meanwhile move your baby somewhere cool and sponge him down with cool water. Use a fan too if you have one. Obviously, prevention is best, so always keep an eye on your child in extreme heat, as well as in enclosed spaces like the car on a hot day.

Tummy bugs

Tummy bugs are common. Your toddler may vomit, have diarrhoea, and feel unwell. Seek medical advice. Keep up his fluid intake, with frequent small drinks of water or rehydration solution. If he’s vomiting, offer small sips.

Stings and bites

A wasp or bee sting is a painful shock, and your child may scream with panic. Hug and reassure him, then check the sting or bite. If the sting is still there, clean your fingernails with an antibacterial wipe before removing it.

Do not use tweezers as you will drive more venom in. Soothe the area with cold water or an ice pack. If the area becomes very red or swollen, see your doctor or practice nurse. If your child is stung in the mouth, give him an ice cube to suck and go straight to hospital – stings in the mouth or throat cause swelling that could block off the airway and even kill.

Prickly heat

Prickly heat is an irritating rash that toddlers are prone to in warm weather, caused by inflamed sweat glands. Keep your child’s skin clean and cool, and don’t over-dress him when it’s hot.

Natural fabrics are more comfortable than synthetics, so cool cotton layers are the way to go. If he develops the small itchy spots of prickly heat, soothe the skin with calamine lotion. A nice cold drink will also help a tetchy tot feel better.