Hydration is more than just sipping water; it's a fundamental aspect of a child's well-being. Children require a continuous intake of water to regulate their body temperature and facilitate essential bodily functions. The risk of dehydration is highest among young children and infants. Keep a close eye on signs of thirst, as they could indicate early dehydration. Combat mild cases by administering oral rehydration fluids or water at home, steering clear of sugary beverages.

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Why do children need to stay hydrated?

Delve into the wisdom of water and its profound impact on children's health by comprehending the composition of their bodies. A significant proportion of a child's body is comprised of water, playing a vital role in regulating body temperature, producing bodily fluids, and supporting daily functions. Failure to address dehydration may result in poor sports performance, fatigue, headaches, and irritability, potentially leading to serious medical issues. Achieving an optimal fluid balance is essential for the body's optimal functioning, with children, especially during warm weather or exercise, facing an increased risk of dehydration. Parents and caregivers must be vigilant in ensuring children maintain a consistent intake of water, understanding that waiting for signs of thirst may indicate a delayed response to dehydration.

What causes dehydration?

Go beyond the obvious and unmask the culprits responsible for dehydration in children. After intense physical activity or exercise, during episodes of severe vomiting, diarrhea, or fever, and with the use of certain medications like diuretics, children are at an increased risk of dehydration. Insufficient fluid intake, especially during illness, poses another threat, along with heightened susceptibility for those under six months old. Hot weather exacerbates these risk factors. Understanding these triggers is paramount for parents and caregivers to take proactive measures in preventing dehydration.

What and how much should my child drink?

Prioritize your child's well-being by opting for healthy sips, with water leading the way. Steer clear of sugary and acidic alternatives like sports drinks, fruit juices, soft drinks, and flavored mineral waters to protect against tooth decay. Water stands as the healthiest choice, with recommended daily intake varying by age: 4 to 8 years old – 5 cups; 9 to 13 years old – 5 to 6 cups; and 14 to 18 years old – 6 to 8 cups. Acknowledge the increased water needs during exercise or in hot climates. Regardless of the weather, instill the importance of regular hydration, encouraging your child to drink before, during, and after physical activity to prevent dehydration.

Tips to help your child stay hydrated

Ensure your child stays hydrated with these practical tips:

Always pack a water bottle for them.
Remind them to hydrate before sports games and take water breaks during the game.
Encourage a substantial drink afterward to replenish lost fluids.
Keep a jug of fresh tap water within easy reach, chilling it in the fridge on warm days.
Send a labeled, clear water bottle to school daily.
Pack water, not sugary drinks or juice, when heading to the shops or the park.
Lead by example—adults should role-model proper hydration by drinking plenty of water too.

Signs and symptoms of mild dehydration

Unmask the signs of mild dehydration in your child with these detective clues:

Thirstiness (an initial indicator of dehydration).
Dizziness or lightheadedness.
Nausea.
Headache.
Dark yellow or brown urine.
Dry tongue, mouth, throat, or lips.
Decreased frequency of toilet visits or scant urine production.

Signs and symptoms of severe dehydration

Be on high alert for indicators of severe dehydration in children. If your child experiences extreme thirst, lethargy, confusion, or drowsiness, seek urgent medical attention. Notice any changes in skin color, cold hands or feet, rapid breathing, or an elevated heart rate. Dark and sunken eyes serve as additional warning signs. In cases of severe dehydration, it is imperative to promptly consult your GP or visit the nearest hospital emergency department for immediate medical care.

Dehydration treatment

When your child is dehydrated, the most effective treatment involves increasing fluid intake, such as water or oral rehydration solutions (like Gastrolyte, HYDRAlyte, Pedialyte, and Repalyte). These solutions can be readily obtained from your local pharmacy or supermarket. It's important to avoid high-sugar drinks, such as flat lemonade or sports drinks, as they can exacerbate dehydration. Babies and young children, being more susceptible to severe dehydration, require special attention. If you're breastfeeding, offer more frequent feeds to your baby. For bottle-fed babies older than 6 months, replace formula feeds with oral rehydration solution or water for the initial 12 hours, followed by normal formula in smaller, more frequent amounts. For infants under 6 months exhibiting signs of dehydration, seek prompt medical attention.