Summer months always mean movement, joy and holiday for Bodrum. However, unfortunately, during these periods when our children stay by the sea or pool or under the sun for a long time, "holiday illnesses" and child emergency cases increase rapidly. It is vital for families to know how to intervene in these situations without panicking and to understand when they need to consult a pediatrician.
THE MOST COMMON HOLIDAY PROBLEMS OF THE SUMMER MONTHS:
1. GASTROINTESTINAL INFECTIONS DUE TO SWALLOWING CHLORINE AND POOL WATER: The feeling of cooling in the pool is indispensable for children, but especially invisible bacteria and rota-virus, etc., which cannot be completely cleaned with chlorine in children's pools. The virus spreads rapidly through the mouth. A child who swallows water may experience severe diarrhea, nausea and vomiting within hours. - First Intervention for the Family: Do not panic immediately when vomiting starts. The first step is to prevent dehydration due to diarrhea by resting the stomach and giving fluids with small spoons at frequent intervals. However, if the vomiting is persistent, the child cannot drink any water, has decreased tears, or is not urinating, bring him or her to the pediatric center immediately to begin fluid therapy.
2. "SWIMMER'S EAR" (EXTERNAL EAR CANAL INFECTION): It is a painful bacterial swelling that develops in the outer ear canal due to water standing in sea or pool water for a long time or accumulating in the ear. "My ear hurts so much I can't go on vacation" is the number one reason why children cry. If the pain becomes sharper when you pull the pinna, an external ear canal infection should be suspected. Absolutely avoid inserting random drops or cotton buds into the child's ear; drops should be prescribed under the supervision of a doctor.
3. SUNSTROKE AND SEVERE BURNS: The sensitive skin of babies or children exposed to the sun between 11.00 and 16.00 during the day burns easily. Symptoms of sunstroke may include red, dry or excessively sweaty skin, chills, high fever (sometimes reaching 40 degrees), weakness, nausea, headache and excessive heartbeat. - In such a case, the child should be quickly taken to a cool area, excess clothing should be removed, his body should be compressed with a damp and not too cold towel, and a doctor should be called. Never apply products such as toothpaste or yoghurt to skin that is swollen or blistered after a burn; This only increases the risk of infection.
WHEN SHOULD YOU CONTACT US URGENTLY? In case of severe ear pain lasting more than 24 hours, intense fever causing fatigue and confusion, or severe dehydration, contact our clinic quickly to prevent a holiday from turning into a nightmare. We are always ready to provide expert, calm and conscious emergency health guidance for children in Bodrum!