Babies may face dehydration just like adults. Dehydration occurs when there is less water in your body to keep it functioning normally. Staying dehydrated is vital to all cells in your body. Low water intake, loose motions, vomiting, and fever can cause dehydration. An adult requires two to four liters of water a day, but the requirement is not the same for children.
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Dehydration in babies
Dehydration in babies means the water intake is not as much as the output. Babies may lose water when they pee or vomit. Due to their small size, babies may not be able to drink as much as needed, especially when they are not well. Problems with latching on may decrease the hydration level in babies and cause dehydration.
Babies need electrolytes in addition to water. They get both these elements from breast milk or formula milk. Insufficient electrolytes, with or without low water consumption can cause dehydration in babies.
Signs of dehydration in babies
The signs of dehydration in babies may vary according to its severity. Newborns are older babies who may have different symptoms than those of toddlers. Following are the symptoms to look out for if your baby is sick, has trouble feeding, or feels warm:
- Constipation or hard stool
- Sleeping too much
- Dry diaper for long periods
- Crying without tears
- A soft or sunken part on the head
- Wrinkly skin
- Fussiness
- Dry mouth
Many indicators of dehydration in babies may not be obvious. Not having wet and soiled diapers for hours is an effective way of knowing that your baby has dehydration. If you see any of the above symptoms in your baby, consult a pediatrician for guidance on its cure.
Causes of dehydration in babies
Babies are more susceptible to dehydration than adults because they have more body water content than adults. Additionally, they have a higher rate of metabolism. It makes them consume water faster than adults. The causes of dehydration include:
1. Feeding problems
Newborns may initially face issues with breastfeeding. It may be difficult for them to latch on to the breast. Problems with swallowing and digesting milk can also lead babies to take a low amount of milk. Not getting enough can result in dehydration, as breast milk is the only source of nutrition for breastfed infants. Similarly, bottle-fed babies also need sufficient milk to stay dehydrated. Ensure that your child is getting adequate milk supply at usual intervals.
2. Severe diarrhea
The most common cause of dehydration in babies and adults is diarrhea. Loose watery stools after every few hours can drain water out of your baby. The high loss of fluid and the inability to take that much water intake can cause dehydration in babies. Viral diarrhea may go away on its own in a few days. You may consult a child specialist in Lahore to get tips on how to ensure that your baby is getting ample milk to prevent dehydration
3. Fever
A high fever can lead to dehydration because babies lose fluid more quickly due to high body temperature. Fever can be due to viral or bacterial disease. If your baby has a fever, consult a doctor as soon as possible.
4. Heat exposure
Summer in Pakistan can be hot and humid. Babies may get exposed to soaring temperatures during summer. It may lead to heat stroke and dehydration in some cases. Do not stay outdoors during peak summer hours with your baby as it can cause sweating that depletes body water quickly. Additionally, excess exposure to the sun can cause rashes on your baby’s skin.
5. Vomiting
Your baby may experience vomiting if they are unable to digest milk properly. It causes quick loss of fluids and causes your baby to vomit more often. Excessively losing water through water can lead to dehydration. It can be due to a viral disease or other stomach issues.
6. Rejecting food
It is natural for babies to refuse to drink milk if they feel unwell or feel pain. Health problems, such as congestion or sore throat, can make it hard for babies to swallow.
Treatment of dehydration in babies
Chronic dehydration can be lethal and need immediate attention from a healthcare professional. A doctor will physically examine your baby and guide you on what is the best course of treatment depending on the intensity of dehydration. You can also treat dehydration in infants at home. Some dome remedies to treat dehydration in babies are:
1. Ensure satisfactory feed
Babies may have issues taking breast milk as they can not latch on the nipple. It can be frustrating feeding your baby. Take intervals and try again till they learn to get a proper grip. Newborns need to eat after every two to three hours, and feeding them at those times is essential.
2. Use other ways to feed
If your baby has a low hydration level due to latching issues, try using a feeder or a dropper to feed them. Pump breast milk and transfer it to the feeder. If your baby rejects breastmilk no matter what or is not getting supply, consider shifting to infant formula milk.
3. Try different formulas
Some people may prefer giving their children formula feed. It is vital to find formula milk that suits your baby. Test different formula milk brands and decide which seems most suitable for your child.
4. Pick light clothes on hot days
Summer heat can be unbearable for adults and children alike. Wearing layers of clothes or thick clothing material can increase body temperature and cause suffocation. Opt for light and breezy clothes in the summer months. Keep extra clothes with you when leaving the house, in case it gets too hot. If your child suffers from night sweats, lower the thermostat and dress them in airy clothes to prevent dehydration.
5. Treat the underlying condition
Dehydration due to an underlying condition such as stomach flu. Use remedies such as a sponge bath for the fever to combat the signs of the sickness causing dehydration. Lactose intolerance can also make it difficult for little ones to stay hydrated. Consult a doctor to know the cause and treatment for dehydration in your baby.
6. Try juicy foods
It is unsafe for babies to drink water for at least the first six months after birth. If your child is older than this, you can make ice treats for the baby to suck on. Juicy foods, such as watermelon or cucumbers, can be given in puree form. These methods can increase the hydration levels in babies. Nonetheless, seek advice from a doctor before giving your child anything out of the ordinary or introducing new foods to their diet.
Preventing dehydration in babies
Preventing hydration in infants may be daunting, but taking precautions may limit the risk of dehydration. These tips may help you avoid dehydration in your baby:
- Keep track of the diaper changing frequency and the consistency of the stool.
- Avoid going out when it is scorching or humid outside.
- Keep the baby comfortable by dressing them according to the weather.
- Avoid giving water as it may stuff your baby’s stomach while depriving your baby of the necessary nutrients babies require
- Stop the spread of germs and keep sick people away from your baby until they get better. Practicing good hygiene can also halt the germs from spreading.
Conclusion
Dehydration can occur in people of all ages, but it can happen to children more often due to their tiny size and high metabolism. Hard stools, sunken head, dry mouth, irritability, too much sleeping, and dry diapers can indicate that your baby has dehydration.
Babies rely on breast milk or formula milk for nutrition which includes water and electrolytes. When babies are unable to suck milk or are not getting enough supply, they can get dehydrated. Babies also lose water if they experience vomiting, sweating, diarrhea or fever. Additionally, if your baby is not eating, it may result in dehydration.
The treatment for dehydration can vary according to the condition of the baby and the cause behind it. Dehydration can be handled at home with ease if it is not critical. Work on providing plenty of milk to your baby at regular intervals can keep your baby’s hydration levels up.
Using a feeder can help feed babies that have trouble latching on. If you are giving your baby formula feed, choose the product that suits your baby the most. Juicy ice pops made from fresh water-based foods assist in increasing water intake, but consult your doctor before introducing your child to new foods.
In cases where the hydration level is dangerously low, a pediatrician may prescribe antibiotics to cure the underlying condition and treat dehydration. Dry diapers for extended periods are a tell-tale sign that your baby may be dehydrated. Take necessary precautions to prevent dehydration.
