Sunburn can be a common problem for children, especially during summertime. It is important for parents to know the signs of sunburn in their babies and what to do in case it happens.
Signs of Sunburn in Children
How do you know if your child has sunburn? Watch out for the following symptoms after your child spends time outdoors:
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Red or pink skin: Sunburn causes the skin to become red or pink, especially in areas that are directly exposed to the sun.
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Warm or hot skin: Skin may feel warm or hot to the touch, especially if the burn is severe.
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Pain or tenderness: Your child’s skin may be painful or tender to the touch, and they may complain of discomfort or itching.
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Blisters: In severe cases, sunburn can cause blisters to form on the skin, which can be a sign of second-degree burns.
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Fever or chills: In rare cases, sunburn can cause a fever or chills, which may be a sign of more serious sun-related illnesses.
Image Source: iStock
What to Do in Case of Sunburn
If you suspect your child has sunburn, the first thing you should do is get them out of the sun and into a cool, shaded area. Remove any tight clothing and apply a cool compress or take a cool bath to help reduce the pain and heat.
You may also consider giving your child over-the-counter pain relief medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to help ease the pain.
Home Remedies for Sunburn
There are several home remedies that can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with sunburn. One effective home remedy is to apply aloe vera gel to the affected area. Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and swelling.
Other home remedies include applying cool, damp cloths to the affected area, taking a cool bath with oatmeal or baking soda, and drinking plenty of fluids to help prevent dehydration.
When to Worry About Sunburn
It is important to monitor sunburn in children and seek medical attention if necessary. According to Stanford Children’s Health, parents should be concerned if their child has severe sunburn with blisters, high fever, or chills, or if it covers a large area of the body. If a child has these symptoms, they should be taken to a doctor for evaluation and treatment.
5 Tips for Preventing Sunburn in Children
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Keep your child out of the sun during peak hours. Sun exposure is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so try to schedule outdoor activities before or after this time.
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Dress your child in protective clothing. Wearing a long-sleeved shirt and a wide-brimmed hat can help shield their skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
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Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Be sure to apply it to all exposed areas of your child’s skin, and reapply every two hours, or more often if they are swimming or sweating.
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Seek shade. When possible, have your child play in the shade or under a tree, as this will help reduce their overall sun exposure.
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Be vigilant for signs of sunburn. Watch for redness, pain, and itching, and seek medical attention if needed. Remember, preventing sunburn is key to protecting your child’s skin from further damage.
Image Source: iStock
In conclusion, sunburn can be a painful and uncomfortable experience for children, but there are steps parents can take to prevent and treat it when it happens. Be sure to recognise the signs of sunburn in your child, take immediate action to treat sunburn, and use home remedies to alleviate pain and discomfort.
Most importantly, take preventative measures by keeping your child out of the sun during peak hours, dressing them in protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly. By following these guidelines, you can help protect your child’s skin from the harmful effects of the sun.
Have fun in the sun!
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