Children's dehydration: Recognition, Prevention and Trade

Why Children Risk Walking on Dehydration

Children, especially babies and toddlers, have difficulty in indicating themselves that they are thirsty. This makes them particularly prone to dehydration, especially if they are ill with symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, or fever. Furthermore, children lose fluid faster due to sweating, which can lead to rapid fluid balance during warm weather.

Symptoms of Dehydration in Children

Recognition of dehydration in children can be difficult, because they cannot always communicate clearly how they feel. Some symptoms to be taken into account are:

• Thirst: Young children cannot always express this, but constant need for drinking can be a signal.
• Dry tongue and lips: Dry mouth and lips may indicate dehydration.
• Crying without tears: In severe dehydration, children can no longer produce tears when crying.
• Little or no urine: Reduced urine production with dark and strong smelling urine may be a sign.
• Infouled fountain (in babies): The soft spot on the baby's head can feel dented in when dehydrated.

Severe Symptoms of Dehydration

If dehydration is untreated, symptoms may worsen until:

• Restlessness
• Confusion
• Sustenance
• Loss of consciousness

Causes of Dehydration in Children

Several factors may lead to dehydration in children:

• Disease: Especially in the case of diseases such as vomiting, diarrhoea or fever, the body loses a lot of fluid.
• Extreme sweating: For example during hot weather or in intensive physical activity.
• Insufficient drinking: Children sometimes forget to drink when they are busy or distracted.
• High ambient temperatures Heat can worsen fluid loss, especially in young children.

Preventive Measures and First Aid

As a parent, you can take various steps to prevent dehydration and intervene in time if symptoms occur:

• Regularly offer small sip of moisture: Even if the child does not want to drink, try to encourage it to drink small amounts.
• Choose drinks that the child likes: Water is ideal, but if the child prefers juice or sports drinks, that's good.
• Hydrate the lips: This may help to reduce thirst and promote fluid intake.
• Monitor moisture intake: Make sure your child receives sufficient fluid according to recommended age guidelines.
• Contacting the GP: If you suspect your child is dehydrated, contact a doctor immediately. Fast treatment can be life-saving.

How much moisture does a Healthy Child need?

• Babies: Approximately 150 ml per kilogram of body weight per day.
• Young children: Approximately 50 ml per kilogram of body weight per day.

Conclusion

Dehydration is a serious health issue, especially in young children. By being alert to the symptoms, offering regular fluid and acting quickly when signs of dehydration are present, you can contribute as a parent to the health and well-being of your children, even during the warmest summer days. Ensure good moisture balance and enjoy a safe and healthy summer together!