Being vigilant about signs and symptoms is crucial for identifying dehydration in children. Look for indicators such as a persistently dry or sticky mouth, minimal tears during crying, and sunken eyes. In infants, a sunken soft spot (fontanelle) on the head can be telling. Reduced urine output, resulting in fewer wet diapers, is another clear sign. Furthermore, if your child exhibits irritability, increased drowsiness, or occasional dizziness, these could be additional symptoms of dehydration.

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What Is Dehydration?

Dehydration, signifying insufficient water in the body, is a crucial health consideration.
The body experiences dehydration when it lacks an ample water supply.

What Causes Dehydration?

Dehydration in children is commonly linked to vomiting, diarrhea, or the aversion to drinking caused by mouth sores or a sore throat. Heightened awareness is crucial, especially in hot weather or when children are energetically playing.

How Is Dehydration Treated?

Examining the treatment of dehydration in children requires careful consideration of its severity. Mild cases can be handled at home by providing additional liquids, with oral rehydration solutions such as Pedialyte and Enfalyte proving effective. These solutions, accessible without a prescription, provide the necessary components to combat dehydration.


For more severe cases, prompt medical attention at the emergency room or hospital is crucial. If access to oral rehydration solutions is limited, consulting with a healthcare professional for alternative liquid options is recommended.

If your child has mild dehydration and your doctor says it’s OK to start treatment at home

Empowering parents to manage their child's mild dehydration at home involves providing small, frequent sips of oral rehydration solution (ORS). Administer 1–2 teaspoons every few minutes for infants and 1–2 tablespoons for older kids. For infants, continue breastfeeding or formula feeding, and consider offering electrolyte ice pops to older children. Despite initial resistance to solid foods, encouraging regular eating is crucial. As your child's condition improves, transition from ORS to their usual diet. Avoid substituting plain water for ORS in infants and refrain from offering sports drinks, soda, or undiluted juice, as they can exacerbate symptoms. Always consult with your doctor before administering any medications for diarrhea or vomiting.

When Should I Call the Doctor?

Professional guidance is essential if your child abstains from drinking anything for an extended time.

It's recommended to consult your healthcare provider if your child, less than one year old, exclusively consumes oral rehydration solution and refrains from breast milk or formula for 24 hours.

Seek professional guidance if your child refrains from the consumption of solid food for 3–4 consecutive days.

It's crucial to consult your doctor if your child shows symptoms of dehydration, like a dry mouth, reduced urination, fewer tears, or a sunken soft spot.

It's crucial to consult your doctor if your child is persistently cranky, fussy, or less active than their usual self.

How Can We Prevent Dehydration?

Hot weather poses unique challenges for hydration, especially for active kids. Encourage frequent drinking, and for those engaged in sports, ensure they consume extra liquids beforehand. Regular drink breaks, approximately every 20 minutes during activity, are essential to combat dehydration and keep your child cool and hydrated.