Toddlers who lose large amounts of water through fever, vomiting, diarrhea or excessive sweating are at risk for dehydration. Dehydration is a serious condition, and can be life-threatening if left untreated. Because toddlers have a limited vocabulary, they are sometimes unable to explain the feelings of discomfort typically associated with this condition. Parents must be vigilant in recognizing the signs of dehydration so they can obtain appropriate treatment in a timely manner when necessary. If you have any specific concerns about your toddler and the potential for dehydration, call a pediatrician for advice.
Step 1
Monitor how often your toddler urinates. Going more than six hours without urinating may indicate dehydration. When your toddler does urinate, check the color. Darker urine may also indicate dehydration, especially if a strong smell is present as well.
Step 2
Watch your toddler's eyes when she cries. A toddler who is unable to produce tears may be dehydrated. Her eyes may also look sunken, or have dark circles beneath them.
Step 3
Check the lips and mouth. While older toddlers may tell you that their mouth or lips feel dry, you may need to manually check this out with younger toddlers. Look for cracks on the lips, and check to see if there is a normal amount of saliva in the mouth. The inside of the mouth may also seem sticky.
Step 4
Feel your toddler's skin. Skin that seems unusually dry or cool may indicate dehydration.
Step 5
Look for signs of lethargy. A toddler that seems unusually tired, listless or unresponsive to stimulation may be dehydrated.
Step 6
Go to the doctor if you are still unsure. Dehydration is serious condition, so if you are unable to determine for sure if your toddler is dehydrated it is best to err on the side of caution and take him to the doctor.
Tips and Warnings
- An oral rehydration solution, such as Pedialyte or ReVital, can help rehydrate toddlers who are slightly dehydrated. These drinks are widely available at most drugstores and supermarkets. Well-meaning friends and family may suggest you withhold food or have your toddler follow a special diet during the rehydration process. These remedies are considered old wives tales. They are not necessary and may do more harm than good. Instead of forcing your toddler to drink large amounts of fluid at one time, encourage her to drink small amounts of fluid frequently.
- Thirst is not a good sign of dehydration. By the time your toddler indicates he is thirsty, he may already be dehydrated. Serious dehydration requires immediate medical attention. If your toddler has all of the above signs of dehydration, call your doctor immediately or take her to the closest emergency room.
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