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What are the symptoms of dehydration in children?

Dehydration in children can occur in mild, moderate and severe forms. The signs and symptoms associated with each stage can vary and worsen. In mild dehydration, generally the only signs and symptoms are thirst and restlessness. Moderate symptoms can include increased thirst, dry mouth, reduced urine output, and sunken eyes. Severe symptoms can include extreme thirst, non-elastic skin, stupor, no urine output, and rapid breathing and heart rate.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is dehydration in children?

Dehydration occurs when you lose more fluid from your body than you take in. Dehydration in children is common as they have a higher turnover of fluids than adults and therefore need proportionally larger volumes of water to maintain a healthy fluid level.

What causes dehydration in children?

Dehydration in children can be caused by excessive exercise, hot weather, illness, vomiting and diarrhoea, fever and extreme sweating.

Are certain children more at risk of dehydration?

Any child can become dehydrated; however, there are increased risks for children who have a loss of appetite due to an acute illness, have diabetes, live in warmer climates or play lots of sports, particularly in the sun.

How is dehydration in children diagnosed?

A diagnosis of dehydration can usually be made by a child's physical symptoms and medical history. A physical examination by your doctor can reveal a lack of elasticity in the skin, a rapid heart rate and low blood pressure.

Are there different types of dehydration in children?

Dehydration in children can be categorised into mild, moderate and severe stages that are based on the loss of body weight. Mild dehydration occurs when there is a loss of less between 5-6% of body weight. Moderate dehydration occurs …

How is dehydration in children treated?

Treatment for dehydration in children is focused on replenishing the electrolytes and fluid that have been lost during dehydration. Mild dehydration can be treated without the need of medical services, by replacing fluids with an oral rehydration …

Is dehydration in children serious?

If dehydration progresses to a severe form, serious complications can occur. This includes hypovolemic shock, which is characterised by pale, clammy skin that is cool to touch, a rapid heartbeat and shallow breathing. Blood pressure can also drop to a …

Will dehydration in children clear on its own?

No. Dehydration will not clear on its own. It is important to start rehydration as soon as symptoms are recognised.

Can dehydration in children be prevented?

Dehydration in children is preventable. A healthy fluid balance can be maintained in children if they drink water or other fluids before they feel thirsty. It is also important for children to drink extra fluids before and during exercise, or in …

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About this article

Author: Dr Joanne Van der Velden PhD, BSc (Hons)
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 14 May 2019
Rating: 4.0 out of 5
Votes: 70 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Bronchitis

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