Little bodies like your baby's can become dehydrated easily, and it's a serious concern when your little one is also suffering from vomiting and diarrhea. If your baby has these symptoms and/or a fever they might be losing electrolytes—like sodium, Potassium, and chloride—which play an important role in their nervous system and regulating their body’s fluid balance. Keep track of these signs to know what to look for when your baby isn't feeling well. The AAP recommends alerting your baby’s doctor if any of the following symptoms develop:
Mild to moderate dehydration:
- Plays less than usual.
- Urinates less frequently (for infants, fewer than six wet diapers per day).
- If dehydration is caused by diarrhea, stools will be loose. If caused by vomiting or fever, there will be fewer stools.
- Parched, dry mouth.
- Fewer tears when crying.
- Sunken soft spot of the head in an infant or toddler.
Severe dehydration (in addition to the symptoms and signals already listed):
- Very fussy.
- Excessively sleepy.
- Sunken eyes.
- Cool, discolored hands and feet.
- Wrinkled skin.
- Urinates only one to two times per day.