Dehydration

When the body loses water more quickly than it is replaced: usually due to not drinking enough fluids when it is too hot and/or while playing or exercising. It can also be due to losing fluids too rapidly during an illness that causes sweating from a fever, vomiting and/or diarrhoea. Babies and small children have a low body weight and are more sensitive to even small amounts of fluid loss. Dehydration can lead to serious health problems and can be fatal if not treated in time. It’s important to remember that even if your child is not thirsty, she may still be dehydrated. A better way to tell is to look at her urine. Light colour urine usually means she is hydrated, darker yellow or amber urine is a sign of dehydration.

Symptoms

A dry, sticky mouth and mucus membranes. Thirst. Shrivelled and dry skin that does not “bounce back” when pinched. Headaches and/or fevers. Constipation. Low blood pressure, leading to dizziness and lightheadedness.

Little or no urine. In babies no wet nappies for three hours.

Urine is dark yellow or amber in colour. Few or no tears when crying. Extreme fussiness or sleepiness. Rapid heartbeat. Rapid breathing. In the most serious cases, delirium or unconsciousness.

Treatment

Always ensure your child drinks enough fluids.

During illnesses make sure your child gets plenty of fluids. Increase breastfeeds as necessary.

Toddlers and small children

should be given diluted juice or an oral rehydration solution during bouts of vomiting and diarrhoea. Continue breastfeeding smaller babies.

Don’t give babies plain fruit juice, especially if they have diarrhoea and/or vomiting; it can make it worse. Rather give breastmilk, formula and water, as well as an oral rehydration solution for infants.

If your child is struggling to hold down fluids because of vomiting, give smaller amounts more frequently. Try using a spoon or syringe. If that doesn’t stay down, get medical help.

If your child shows any signs of dehydration, take her to the doctor or clinic immediately, even if the symptoms appear to be mild.

Contact your doctor or clinic if your baby has had six or more episodes of diarrhoea in the past 24 hours, or if she has vomited three times or more in the past 24 hours.