Dr. Anatoly Malchev, from the Department of Anesthesiology, Resuscitation and Intensive Care at the Pirogov Institute of Nuclear Medicine, warned that dehydration develops in children much faster than in adults, urging parents to be fully vigilant during the summer.

The doctor revealed a number of warning signs that parents should monitor, most notably: decreased urination, dry lips and tongue, absence of tears when crying, unusual lethargy, refusal to drink fluids, a sunken fontanel in infants, as well as excessive drowsiness or severe irritability. He stressed the need to consult a doctor immediately upon the appearance of any of these symptoms.

Regarding physical activity in hot weather, Malchev explained that intense exercise under direct sunlight increases the risk of dehydration and heatstroke, advising to postpone exercise to early morning or evening hours when temperatures are lower.

The doctor identified signs that require immediate cessation of exercise, namely: dizziness, nausea, severe weakness, chills, loss of balance, or cessation of sweating. He pointed out the importance of replenishing lost fluids with small, regular amounts during physical activity, rather than waiting until after it ends, as reported by Russia's TASS news agency.

He stressed that prevention of heatstroke and dehydration is based on three main pillars: maintaining fluid balance in the body and not ignoring thirst, avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and wearing light clothing appropriate for summer weather.

Malchev concluded that children, the elderly, and those with chronic diseases are the most vulnerable groups to the effects of high temperatures and require special care during heat waves.