When your child is sick, it's natural to worry about dehydration. Knowing what signs to look for and when to seek help can help you feel more confident caring for your child. Here are answers to some of the questions parents ask most often.
What are the signs of dehydration?
Young children can become dehydrated when they lose fluids through illness, hot weather, intense and vigorous activity, or simply don't feel like drinking.
Watch for signs such as:
- Plays less than usual
- Urinates less frequently
- Dry mouth
- Fewer tears when crying
If you notice these signs, it's important to encourage fluids and monitor your child closely.
What is an electrolyte solution?
An electrolyte solution is specially formulated to replace fluids and electrolytes lost during illness and support hydration. Electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, help maintain the body's fluid balance. When children lose fluids through illness, they can lose electrolytes too.
When should I consider using one?
Parents may consider an electrolyte solution when a child is losing fluids due to illness, hot weather, or intense and vigorous activity or has poor fluid intake due to illness. Your pediatrician may recommend an electrolyte solution when oral rehydration is appropriate to help support hydration during recovery.
Can I use juice, soda, or sports drinks instead?
Many common beverages do not provide the balance of electrolytes and carbohydrates used in electrolyte solutions. While children may enjoy these beverages, they were not specifically designed to support rehydration during illness. If you are unsure what to offer, ask your pediatrician for guidance.
What's the best way to give fluids?
When children don't feel well, small amounts often work better than large amounts.
Try:
- Offering small, frequent sips
- Using a small cup, spoon, or medicine syringe if needed
- Gradually increasing the amount as tolerated
Being patient and offering fluids often can help children stay hydrated while they recover.
When should I call my pediatrician?
Contact your pediatrician if your child:
- Very fussy
- Excessively sleepy
- Sunken eyes
- Cool, discolored hands and feet
- Wrinkled skin
- Urinates only 1-2 times per day
- Cannot keep fluids down
- Refuses fluids
- Seems to be getting worse rather than better
When in doubt, it's always okay to call your child's healthcare provider for guidance.
Parent Takeaway
Most childhood illnesses get better with supportive care and knowing the signs of dehydration and when to seek help can help you feel more confident. If your child is losing fluids due to illness, talk with your pediatrician about the best hydration approach for your child and ask about Gerberlyte™, an electrolyte solution scientifically designed to rehydrate quicker than common beverages.
Dehydration Signs & Symptoms Reference: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/injuries-emergencies/Pages/dehydration.aspx
