Posted on July 3, 2009 in Latest News
Toddlers are easily prone to dehydration due to their small bodies. Warm weather, vomiting, diarrhea, fever – can all increase the risk of dehydration in toddlers. Toddler dehydration can have severe health consequences and can sometimes be fatal. Hence, parents should ensure the toddler stays hydrated every day. They should also look out for signs of dehydration and replace fluids accordingly.
Signs of Dehydration in Toddler:
The following are the toddler dehydration signs and symptoms:
- 6 to 8 hours (or more) without a wet diaper
- Dark and strong smelling urine
- Dry mouth and lips
- Lack of tears when the child cries
- Rapid heart beat
Serious Dehydration can have the following signs:
- Cold hands and feet
- Sunken eyes
- Fussiness
- Excessive sleepiness
Toddler Dehydration Treatment:
Here are the Steps to Take if Your Toddler is Dehydrated:
- If you suspect the child is mildly dehydrated, try giving the child cool water to drink. You can also give electrolytic drinks which replenish the water and the salts.
- For moderate dehydration, make your child drink water and consultation your pediatrician. He/she would give you guidelines to treat dehydration.
- Severe dehydration can be life threatening, which needs immediate visit to the emergency room. Replacing of IV fluids may be undertaken.
Parents have to make sure the toddler drinks more water when the child has:
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Is in warm weather
- Is playing
Tips to Prevent Toddler Dehydration
- Make sure you give toddler plenty of fluids. It is better to have water at regular intervals than at a time
- Encourage the habit of drinking water in your child. This is very important when the weather is hot, or if your toddler is playing
- Include water rich foods such as grapes, watermelon in your toddler’s diet
- Have a bottle near the toddler so that he/she can sip on it at regular intervals
Toddler dehydration can be easily prevented. Parents should check for signs of dehydration and replace water to prevent its effects.
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