Dehydration Due to Diarrhea

Our body is around 50-75% water. Like adults, it is very important to maintain appropriate the hydration levels in kids too. So what happens if your child suffers from dehydration. What are the ill effects of dehydration in children?

Dehydration due to diarrhea is among the leading causes of mortality in infants and young children. Therefore, it must not be overlooked. Although diarrhea in itself is not dangerous, but proper care is not taken, it can be severely dangerous for children.  

Relationship between diarrhea and dehydration

When your baby is suffering from diarrhea, his/her body loses fluid in the form of loose motions. Along with water, important salt, sugar, and minerals are also lost. As compared to adults, babies tend to get dehydrated faster as their water reserve is smaller. If not properly replenished, your child may have to face the risk of dehydration.

Symptoms of dehydration

If your little one encounters any of the following symptoms of dehydration quickly contact your doctor:

1. Drastic increase in thirst
2. Dry or sticky mouth
3. No tears while crying
4. Sunken eyes
5. Less or no urination
6. Dry skin and cracked lips
7. Crankiness
8. Fainting
9. Sunken soft spot (fontanelle) on your baby’s head

Treatment for dehydration

Treatment for dehydration is not that complex; all you need to do is to replenish the lost fluids. Mild dehydration can be easily treated at home using the following tips:

1. Give your child Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS). In dehydration just water is not enough. ORS has all the salts and minerals in required proportions.
2. Your child may not be able to consume too much of liquid at a time. Make the quantity smaller and increase the frequency.
3. For breastfeeding kids, continue breastfeeding mixed with doses of ORS.
4. Avoid formula milk to the extent possible.

Prevention for dehydration

Prevention is always better than cure, especially when your little one is involved. Following are the ways to prevent dehydration:

1. Any illness may lead to dehydration. Ensure your baby is drinking enough fluid to stay hydrated.
2. Timely vaccination is one way to safeguard your baby from various virus and bacteria. Get your baby vaccinated for rotavirus.
3. Teach your kid the importance of hygiene. Children who wash their hands often are less prone to illnesses and infections.
4. While playing or exercising, encourage your child to drink plenty of water.
5. In summers, children are easily afflicted by dehydration. Make your kid drink water at regular intervals. Carry a water bottle if you are outdoors.

If your baby is not recovering or responding to home remedies, immediately rush to your doctor.