Staying hydrated is important for people of all ages, but none more so than babies. The small size of a baby decreases how much water is available in the body, meaning dehydration can occur faster. To make things even more complicated, a baby at 5 months is unable to communicate verbally that she is thirsty. However, there are specific signs to look for which can help you determine whether or not your child is dehydrated.
Step 1
Examine the time between diaper changes. If your baby has not had a wet diaper in more than six hours, she is most likely dehydrated
Step 2
Feel your baby's skin for dryness and elasticity. If your child has drier skin than normal, or if the skin does not stretch and rebound as well as it typically does, this can be a sign of dehydration. Dry mouth and dry lips can also accompany these symptoms.
Step 3
Examine urine color and smell when you change your baby's diaper. Look for a darker urine color and a stronger smell, which both are signs that not enough water is present in your child for her excretory system to work properly.
Step 4
Keep track of how much your baby is sleeping. A 5-month-old will naturally sleep more than an older child or adult. However, if your baby is sleeping much more than normal and has other signs of dehydration, this can be a sign she needs more fluids.
Step 5
Look at your baby's face as she cries. If she is crying, but no tears are developing around the eyes, this can be a sign of dehydration.
Step 6
Feel and look at your baby's hands. If the hands feel cold and look splotchy, this can be a sign of severe dehydration if accompanied by other signs of dehydration.
