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.

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What Is Dehydration?

Shedding light on dehydration, it occurs when the body is deprived of proper water levels.
The body undergoes dehydration when it lacks sufficient water.

What Causes Dehydration?

Vomiting, diarrhea, and a disinclination to drink due to mouth sores or a sore throat are primary contributors to dehydration in children. Be attentive to these factors, particularly in warm weather or when kids are engrossed in physical activities.

What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Dehydration?

Understanding the signs of dehydration in children is vital for proactive care. Keep an eye out for a dry or sticky mouth, limited tears during crying, and sunken eyes. For infants, a sunken soft spot (fontanelle) on the head is noteworthy. Reduced urine output and fewer wet diapers are critical indicators. Be attentive to mood changes; irritability, increased drowsiness, or occasional dizziness could signal dehydration.

How Is Dehydration Treated?

Dehydration in children can result from various causes such as vomiting, diarrhea, or reluctance to drink due to mouth sores or a sore throat. It can also occur during hot weather or increased physical activity. Recognizing the signs of dehydration, including a dry mouth, few tears, or sunken eyes, is crucial.

Mild cases can be managed at home by offering extra liquids, including oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte. Severe cases may require medical attention in the ER or hospital, emphasizing the importance of tailored treatment.

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

Adopting a holistic approach to home remedies for your child's mild dehydration 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 for older children, consider offering electrolyte ice pops. Despite initial reluctance to eat 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?

It's time to consult your doctor if your child goes without drinking for more than a few hours.

Seek medical advice if your child, less than one year old, relies solely on oral rehydration solution and abstains from breast milk or formula for a full day.

Seek medical advice if your child goes 3–4 days without commencing solid food intake.

Seek medical attention if your child exhibits symptoms of dehydration, including dry mouth, decreased urination, fewer tears, or a sunken soft spot.

Seek medical advice if your child is displaying signs of crankiness, fussiness, or reduced activity levels for an extended period.