A dramatic reduction in the amount of fluid in the body causes dehydration, which can be a serious, even life-threatening, condition if left untreated.
And children, especially babies and toddlers, are at a greater risk of dehydration than adults because they have less fluid reserves and because they are sick more often, says Dr Elizabeth Powell, a paediatric emergency physician at Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago.
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Diarrhoeal illness – biggest culprit
The biggest cause of dehydration in youngsters is diarrhoeal illnesses, Powell says.
"There's the fluid loss from the diarrhoea and in addition kids feel lousy, so they don't drink," she says.
Symptoms of dehydration include dry mouth, no tears and a lack of urination. Babies less than 3 months old should urinate at least once every six hours; toddlers should wet at least three diapers a day, and older children should be going to the bathroom at least two to three times in a 24-hour period, Powell says.
Signs of more serious dehydration include sunken eyes, lethargy and a loss of elasticity in the skin. If you notice these symptoms or a lack of urination, contact your child's doctor.
Treating dehydration
The first line of treatment for dehydration is drinking fluids, preferably an oral electrolyte solution designed especially for children. Powell says sports drinks designed for adults aren't as effective as the ones made for kids.
Encourage your child to take small, frequent sips of a paediatric electrolyte drink any time they're sick with a fever or diarrhoea. More serious cases of dehydration may require intravenous rehydration. – (HealthDayNews)
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