• October 21, 2021
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How to tell if your child is dehydrated

Dehydration is a common reason children end up in the hospital. It can happen because of illness, over-exertion, or the environment. It can be an especially significant problem in young children and infants who are not able to communicate thirst, so it is up to us as parents to monitor them for signs and symptoms of early dehydration. Here is a guideline about how to think about pediatric dehydration.

Because dehydration can go from mild to severe quite quickly in a child, I always recommend giving your pediatrician a call first to discuss your specific situation, what red flags to watch for, and how to proceed.

Dehydration is a simple math equation

In every animal body fluid in occurring through the processes like drinking, eating & IV fluids, likewise fluid out occurring through the processes like sweating, peeing, and sometimes through vomiting, diarrhea.
But your goal is always to keep Fluid In more than Fluid Out.

Signs of Dehydration In Infants

Fewer than 6 wet diapers in 24hours

• Sunken fontanelle (soft spot) or eyes

• Rapid Breathing or rapid heart rate

• More sleepy/tired/less alert

• Dark Urine

• Tearless Crying

Signs of Dehydration In Toddlers

Peeing less frequently (< 3-4hours)

• Sunken eyes

• Sunken fontanelle (soft spot) or eyes

• Rapid Breathing or rapid heart rate

• More sleepy/tired/less alert

• Dark Urine

• Tearless Crying

Signs of Dehydration In School-aged Children

Peeing less frequently

• Sunken eyes

• Sunken fontanelle (soft spot) or eyes

• Rapid Breathing or rapid heart rate

• More sleepy/tired/less alert

• Dark Urine

• Tearless Crying

• Very Thirsty

• Dry, Cool, or blotchy skin

• Dizziness

How Parents can treat their dehydrated child to get better at home?

Carefully follow the doctor’s instructions for feeding.

• Do not give children under age 2 over-the-counter medicine for diarrhea unless instructed by your doctor.

• Encourage your child to drink fluids that are unsweetened (sugary sodas, juices, and flavored gelatin can irritate diarrhea).

• Continue to breastfeed infants normally.

• Electrolyte solutions may be helpful when given as recommended by the doctor.

• Slowly increase the amount of fluid and food you give your child.

• Allow your child plenty of rest.

• Watch for signs of dehydration that get worse or come back.

When should you call the doctor?

Call the doctor if your child:

• Has any signs of dehydration as listed above.

• Has increased vomiting or diarrhea.

• Has no wet diapers or urination within eight hours.

• Is lethargic (sleeping more and less playful).

Hospital treatment of dehydration

Dehydration can usually be treated at home, but severe cases may require hospitalization. Hospital care may include:

• Fluids given intravenously (IV).

• Monitoring of electrolytes imbalance.

• Acetaminophen for fever.

• Rest.