What Can Happen to a Dehydrated Child?

Dehydration is bad for anyone, but especially for children, who are more prone to this problem because they weigh less and their bodies process electrolytes and water faster. Kids may suffer from dehydration for many reasons, such as severe vomiting, diarrhea or sweating while playing or doing intense physical activity on hot days. Be alert to symptoms of dehydration so you can take proper rehydration measures.

source

SYMPTOMS

Dehydrated kids may describe a sticky or dry mouth, and their eyes may appear to be sunken, according to KidsHealth.org. Tears are sparse or absent when a dehydrated child cries, and the youngster may be irritable and lethargic, with cool blotches on the feet and hands and dry, wrinkled skin. Older kids often feel dizzy or tired when dehydrated. Dehydration causes lack of urination. In some cases, a dehydrated child may discharge a small amount of very dark yellow liquid.

SELF TREATMENT

Treat your child's mild dehydration by having the youngster drink plenty of water, according to KidsHealth.org. The goal is to get enough fluids into the child's system to replace what was lost and provide enough liquid for normal body functions. Move an affected youngster indoors or to a cool, shady outdoor spot. Give the child water initially, then switch to beverages with electrolytes and salt.

MEDICAL TREATMENT

A severely dehydrated child may require medical attention. A hospital can rapidly replenish lost fluids through an intravenous drip. The youngster may also receive medication such as acetaminophen if fever is present. Restoration of fluids and rest usually cures the problem.

PREVENTION

Dehydration in children is preventable. Insist that your kids drink enough when doing potentially dehydrating activities or when the weather is very hot. The dehydration process has often already started by the time a youngster feels thirsty, KidsHealth.org warns. Insist on giving the child extra fluids before sports, dance classes or any activity that involves vigorous physical exertion. Insist on having the youngster drink every half hour, whether thirsty or not.

WARNING

You may have trouble telling whether your child needs medical attention for dehydration or whether home treatment is enough. Kids need to go to the emergency room if they cannot make eye contact, become unresponsive or go limp. Lack of saliva and a rapid heartbeat are two other signs that the child needs immediate medical attention.