Dehydration may seem like an easy condition to diagnose but when it occurs in a baby, the signs are not that clear. While they may cry out of thirst and hunger, as dehydration progresses, they may cry less and become lethargic. What you think is a content, quiet baby, can be one that is experiencing severe dehydration. It is important to be aware of all of the signs of dehydration that can occur in your baby, so you can get immediate care.
Dry Diapers
One of the first signs of dehydration in an infant is dry diapers. According to Children, Youth, and Women's Health Services of Australia, babies should typically have at least six to eight wet diapers per day, and often more than that. If you find during several daily diaper changes the diapers are dry, your baby may be dehydrated, or becoming dehydrated. Another diaper sign to look for is the color of the urine. If the appearance of the urine in the diaper is a bright yellow or orange color, it means it is highly concentrated, and dehydration may be an issue. When wet diapers start to become fewer, you need to pay attention to how much your baby is drinking. Watch for other signs of dehydration, and if you think your baby might be dehydrated, see your pediatrician immediately. The younger your baby is, the more serious this condition can be.
Dry Skin
Dry skin is another sign of dehydration in an infant. While skin can become dry from environmental conditions, such as dry heat in the house, it can also be due to lack of fluids. Signs to look for are dry, flaky skin, and cracked lips and cracked skin around the mouth area. The University of Iowa Children's Hospital also explains that the infants gums can become dry and sticky as well. While not a skin sign of dehydration, you may also want to pay attention to whether your baby produces tears or not, as no tears can point to not enough fluids within the body.
Other Signs
There are other physical symptoms to be aware of when looking for dehydration in an infant. On the top of the baby's head is what is often referred to as the "soft spot," or fontanel. When dehydrated, the soft spot will appear sunken in, even slightly. The eyes will also appear sunken in, and may have dark areas underneath them. While initially the infant may be cranky, the National Institutes of Health reports that when dehydration has progressed and become severe, the child may seem lethargic, and can even sink into a coma.
