Dehydration

Dehydration can occur when your child has diarrhea or is vomiting. You can avoid serious complications of dehydration by recognizing the early signs or symptoms. They include:

• Dry mouth.
• Absent tears.
• Depression of the "soft spot" on a baby's head.
• Lethargy.
• Decreased urination.

When monitoring your child for dehydration, ask yourself the following questions:

• How many times has my child vomited? Vomiting more than three times in 12 hours can indicate dehydration.
• How many loose stools has your child had and what size? Another indicator of dehydration can be a large stool once every hour or more than four in a six-hour period.
• Have I followed the diarrhea and vomiting directions?
• How much fluid can I get my child to drink? Infants need a minimum of 1 ounce per hour, toddlers at least 2 ounces per hour.

Severe dehydration is a medical emergency, and you should seek immediate medical attention. If you suspect your child is dehydrated, go to the emergency room where they will most likely administer IV fluids.

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