Tummy Trouble

If vacations are synonymous with unlimited sweaty hours spent out in the open,they are also synonymous with increased exposure to germs and infections and related stomach ailments.

Paediatricians say ignoring hygiene practices among children can cause serious malnutrition

If vacations are synonymous with unlimited sweaty hours spent out in the open,they are also synonymous with increased exposure to germs and infections and related stomach ailments. Paediatricians in the city say while diarrhoeal diseases are common among children,especially in the summer,these infections are largely preventable if children are taught and encouraged to inculcate proper hygiene practices such as bathing regularly and washing hands with antiseptic soap before eating and after using the washroom.

They warn that gastrointestinal infections and diarrhoea among children can trigger malabsorption of nutrients and a much more serious progression of malnutrition,which if left unaddressed,can lead to a vicious and synergistic cycle of infection causing physical and cognitive impairment.

Cognitive impairment is one of the key detrimental outcome associated with this cycle of malnutrition and enteric infection, says Dr Shashikant Pawar,general physician at the Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital.

He adds that parents need to show their children how to wet their hands,apply antiseptic soap,then scrub and lather their hands for approximately 20 seconds before rinsing and drying. Children must also be informed about how using antiseptic soap helps fight germs and keeps them healthy and clean. The importance of taking proper baths on a regular basis cannot be understated in this context. Active kids who prefer playing outdoors should bathe at least twice daily, says Dr Pawar.

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hygiene