Dehydration occurs when an infant loses an excess amount of fluid through inadequate feedings, vomiting or diarrhea. Symptoms may include sunken soft spots on the head, sleepiness, a dry mouth, crying without the development of tears, lack of sweat and urinating less than twice a day. Dehydration can be dangerous in young children, making it extremely important to understand its long term consequences.
Kidney Failure
According to the Mayo Clinic, dehydration that is left untreated can result in kidney failure. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, fluid retention, seizures and a decrease in urine output. When this life-threatening condition develops, the kidneys are not able to process and remove salts, waste and fluid from the bloodstream. These dangerous wastes can accumulate in your infant's body, resulting in severe kidney damage or even death. To prevent this condition from becoming life-threatening, a doctor may recommend fluids intravenously or an oral rehydration solution.
Seizures
A baby can experience seizures as the result of dehydration. The KidsHealth website explains that seizures occur when the brain's electrical discharges becomes disturbed, resulting in uncontrollable muscle contractions and sometimes loss of consciousness. Seizures can last up to 15 minutes and can result in serious injury. If you believe your infant is having a seizure as the result of dehydration, seek medical attention immediately. Place him on a safe flat surface away from any objects. Loosen his clothing and wait for the seizure to end.
Swelling of the Brain
The fluid lost during dehydration usually contains the same quantity of sodium as your infant's blood. However, sometimes a child can lose more sodium than fluid, causing the body to create particles that place water back into the brain's cells. This can cause your infant to absorb too much water, causing swelling in the brain and sometimes even rupture of the cells during rehydration. This condition can be fatal if not immediately treated.
