It's often difficult to know when something is seriously wrong with your baby. Her cry can mean so many different things. When it comes to dehydration, you must know the signs so that you can remedy the situation quickly. Your baby doesn't store much fluid in her body, and she has a high metabolic rate, which can cause dehydration to become a life threatening situation within days, according to the website Parents.com.
Causes
Your baby can become dehydrated for several reasons. If he has an intestinal illness, it may cause him to vomit and have diarrhea. Playing outside when it's hot or even indoors in a stuffy room can cause profuse sweating. Having a sore throat may limit the amount of fluids your baby wants to take in. A fever can contribute to fluid loss through sweating as well. Pay special attention to your baby in these situations and look for the symptoms of dehydration.
Mild Dehydration
Your baby should have at least six wet diapers a day. If this is not the case, your baby has mild dehydration. Other symptoms of mild to moderate dehydration include the following: dry, sticky mouth, baby is less active than normal, no wet diaper for three hours, few to no tears when crying, dry skin and constipation.
Serious Dehydration
Symptoms of serious dehydration include the following: extreme thirst; extreme fussiness and irritability; very dry mouth, skin and mucous membranes; lack of sweating; lack of urination and if there is urine, it has a dark amber color and a very strong smell; sunken eyes; when skin is pinched in a fold it doesn't bounce back quickly; baby's soft spot is sunken in; low blood pressure; rapid heartbeat and breathing; no tears when crying; fever; unconsciousness.
Treatment
When your baby exhibits the signs of mild dehydration, call your doctor's office immediately and find out what your the doctor suggests. Pediatricians often suggest giving an oral rehydration solution that is specially designed to replenish your baby's fluids and electrolytes, according to Baby Center. They add that you should continue to breast or bottle feed your baby. If your baby is showing any of the signs of severe dehydration, the Mayo Clinic states that you should call an ambulance or go to the emergency room immediately. Your baby may need immediate rehydration through an IV.
