The Cutting Edge–Summer Alert!

THE CUTTING EDGE

Cathy Shepherd OT, Gretchen Lehan PT, Gail Nuse ST

SUMMER ALERT!

With the Georgia heat and humidity, children with Down Syndrome are at risk for dehydration, overheating and other medical issues.  They do not have to be outside in the sun to have these issues.

Look for these symptoms: Constipation, Low energy, poor attention span, listlessness, changes in sleep and mood.  These changes would be different then their usual patterns in each area.

Keep your child hydrated, which is sometimes hard. Add water to their drinks or use sports drinks.  Choose foods that are high in water such as watermelon, strawberries, cucumbers, oranges, tomatoes, to mention a few.   Kids will want carbs when they feel low energy, but make sure they get some protein with the carbs, as well as fluids.

Spritz with water on their skin while outside. Use a hat or umbrella when out in the heat, in addition to sunscreen.  Throw them in the bathtub or cool down with wet rags. If constipated start a good probiotic.

If you are having continued problems with this, see your pediatrician or make an appointment to come to Thursday morning therapy clinic.