Recognising the telltale signs of dehydration in your baby

Parenthood comes with its fair share of worries, and ensuring your baby stays well-hydrated is one of them. Dehydration in babies can occur quickly and can be a cause for concern. In this article, we'll explore what dehydration is, the signs you should watch out for, the risks involved, and most importantly, how to prevent and address dehydration in your little one.

What is dehydration?

Dehydration is a condition that occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in. For babies, this can happen quite easily, as their bodies are still developing, and they have a higher metabolic rate compared to adults.

Water is essential for various bodily functions, including temperature regulation, digestion, and the transportation of nutrients. When a baby doesn't get enough fluids, it can lead to dehydration.

Dehydration scale: Recognising the severity in your baby

Dehydration in babies can range from mild to severe, and it's essential to be able to recognise the signs at each level. Here's a quick guide to help you understand how to tell if your baby is mildly, moderately, or severely dehydrated.

Mild dehydration

Mild dehydration is usually the easiest to address and typically doesn't require medical intervention. Here are some signs:

• Dry mouth and lips
• Decreased urination
• Irritability

Moderate dehydration

Moderate dehydration requires more attention and might need medical evaluation. Look for these signs:

• Dry mouth and sticky saliva
• Significantly reduced urination
• Sunken fontanelle
• Lethargy and irritability

Severe dehydration

Severe dehydration is a medical emergency and requires immediate professional help. Be vigilant for these severe signs:

• Parched mouth and no tears
• No wet diapers for several hours
• Deeply sunken fontanelle
• Extreme lethargy
• Rapid breathing and rapid heart rate

Remember: If you suspect your baby is moderately or severely dehydrated, seek immediate medical attention. In such cases, professional intervention is crucial to rehydrate your baby safely and effectively.

Signs of dehydration in baby

Now, let's break down each of the signs that say your baby is not getting enough fluids in their system.

1. Dry mouth and lips

One of the first signs of dehydration in babies is dryness in the mouth and lips. You may notice that your baby's mouth appears parched, and their lips may seem cracked or chapped.

2. Decreased urination

A well-hydrated baby should have regular wet diapers. If you notice that your baby's diaper remains dry for longer periods than usual (typically six hours or more), it could be a sign of dehydration.

3. Sunken soft spot (fontanelle)

The soft spot on a baby's head, known as the fontanelle, should be relatively flat when adequately hydrated. If it appears sunken, this can be a sign of dehydration.

4. Irritability and restlessness

Dehydrated babies may become irritable and fussy. They may cry more than usual and have difficulty settling down.

5. Dark yellow urine

Healthy baby urine is usually pale yellow. If your baby's urine becomes dark yellow or amber in colour, it may indicate dehydration.

6. Dry skin

Dehydrated babies may have dry, cool skin that lacks the usual softness and elasticity.

7. Crying without tears

When a baby cries due to dehydration, their tear ducts may not produce tears. This can be a concerning sign.

8. Sunken eyes

Dehydration can cause the eyes to appear sunken or hollow, and the baby may look tired or lethargic.

9. Rapid breathing and heart rate

Dehydrated babies may have a faster heart rate and breathing rate than normal.

10. No interest in feeding

If your baby suddenly loses interest in breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, it could be due to a lack of fluids.

Risks of dehydration in babies

Dehydration in babies is one of the danger signs and can have serious health consequences if not addressed promptly. Some of the potential risks include:

1. Electrolyte imbalance: Dehydration can disrupt the balance of essential electrolytes in a baby's body, which can lead to various health issues.
2. Kidney problems: Prolonged dehydration can strain a baby's kidneys, potentially causing kidney problems.
3. Heat-related illness: In hot weather, babies are at higher risk of dehydration, which can lead to heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
4. Weight loss: Dehydration can cause rapid weight loss in infants, which is a cause for concern, especially in the first few months of life.
5. Developmental delays: Chronic dehydration can affect a baby's overall growth and development.

What to do when your baby is dehydrated

If you suspect your baby is dehydrated, it's crucial to take action promptly:

1. Offer fluids: Try to breastfeed or offer formula more frequently. If your baby is older than six months and has started solids, offer foods with high water content like pureed fruits and vegetables.
2. Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS): For moderate to severe dehydration, consult a healthcare professional and follow their advice, which may include using an ORS specially formulated for babies.
3. Monitor: Keep a close eye on your baby's condition. If you notice any worsening of symptoms or are unsure about the severity of dehydration, seek immediate medical attention.
4. Avoid sugary drinks: Refrain from giving your baby sugary drinks, as they can worsen dehydration.
5. Seek medical help: In severe cases of dehydration, your baby may require hospitalisation for intravenous (IV) fluids and monitoring.

How to prevent dehydration in babies

Prevention is always the best approach when it comes to dehydration in babies. Here are some tips to keep your little one well-hydrated:

1. Breastfeed or formula feed: Ensure your baby is getting enough breast milk or formula according to their age and weight.
2. Offer water in hot weather: If your baby is six months or older and it's hot outside, offer small sips of water between feeds.
3. Watch for illness: Illnesses like diarrhoea and fever can lead to increased fluid loss. Be extra vigilant about hydration during these times.
4. Dress appropriately: Avoid overdressing your baby, especially in hot weather, to prevent excessive sweating and fluid loss.
5. Frequent diaper changes: Keep an eye on your baby's diaper to ensure they are producing an adequate amount of urine.
6. Educate yourself: Familiarise yourself with the signs of dehydration so you can act quickly if you notice any concerning symptoms.

Dehydration in babies is a serious matter that requires vigilance and swift action. Knowing the signs and symptoms of dehydration, along with taking steps to prevent it, can help keep your little one healthy and well-hydrated. Remember that if you ever suspect your baby is dehydrated, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for guidance and treatment.

ALSO READ: Fruit juice for babies: When to give and how much is too much

This article was first published in theAsianparent.