Everyone loses fluid daily. This occurs naturally through sweating, urination, bowel movements, tears and even breathing. When the body loses more fluid that it takes in, it can lead to dehydration. When dehydrated, the body can not perform normally. Dehydration can cause severe complications, especially in children. According to the Mayo Clinic, children are at greater risk of dehydration because they have smaller bodies and a higher rate of fluid loss. Children should always be monitored closely for dehydration, especially when they are sick. To prevent complications from this condition, it must be treated as soon as possible.
Causes of Dehydration
Though there are many causes of dehydration, the most obvious is not drinking enough water. Vomiting and diarrhea can often be a cause of dehydration, especially in children, because they cause a rapid loss of fluid. A fever can also cause dehydration, especially high, prolonged fevers. Excessive sweating due to heat or exercise can also lead to dehydration. The Mayo Clinic states indicates that In some cases, frequent urination can lead to dehydration. This is often a result of an underlying illness, a side effect of a medication or drinking too much alcohol.
Syptoms of Dehydration in Children
A child can have different symptoms when dehydrated. The website Kids Health recommends keeping a close eye on children when they are sick. Look for the following symptoms: dry mouth, lack of tears when crying, sunken eyes, diminished urination or dark urine, dry skin, sunken fontanelle on top of the head, irritability and lethargy. Some older children may also experience dizziness and fatigue when dehydrated. Any child experiencing any of these symptoms should be seen by a doctor.
How to Treat Dehydration
Treatment of dehydration depends on the cause. It is best to follow the doctor's advice on how to treat dehydration. When dehydration is caused by illness, the doctor may recommend the use of oral re-hydration solutions. Re-hydration solutions are specially made to help rehydrate with the perfect combination of fluid and electrolytes. For severe dehydration, children may need to receive a solution intravenously, since it is quicker than oral re-hydration. For dehydration caused by exercise, the best treatment is cold water.
How to Prevent Dehydration in Children
To prevent help prevent dehydration, children should always be offered fluids regularly. Fluids include water and other liquids such as fruit juice. Kids should be encouraged to eat a diet consisting of lots of water-containing fruits and vegetables. Kids should drink extra fluids before, during and after exercising and playing sports. Extra fluids should also be given to children at the first signs of illness, according to the Mayo Clinic. During hot weather, extra fluids should be given once again, to help replenish fluids lost through sweating. Try to keep children cool, to reduce sweating.
