When it comes to dehydration in children, there are a number of tell-tale signs that may point to it.
From their heads to their toes, the body may have indicators that point to dehydration as the culprit.
Knowing where to check and catching it before it becomes severe may avoid a trip to the hospital for IV fluids.
Tiny Hearts Education has compiled a list of these signs for parents to look out for and be aware of.
Taking to their official Instagram account, the organisation wrote:
“Little ones are at higher risk of dehydration than adults. So being aware of what signs to look out for is knowledge every parent should have.”
Check their head
Is their fontanelle sunken? A fontanelle is a ‘soft spot’ of a newborn baby’s skull.
A noticeably sunken fontanelle may be a sign that a baby does not have enough fluid in its body.
Check their eyes
Do they look sunken in? Are there tears coming out when they cry?
If a baby is dehydrated, their eyes may appear sunken and tears may be absent when they start crying.
Check their mouth
If the inside of a baby’s mouth is moist or dry, they may be thirsty or not have enough hydration.
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Check their chest
To check for dehydration, press gently on a baby’s chest and examine how long it takes for the colour to return to normal.
It should take less than two seconds. However, there may be varied levels of dehydration depending on how long it takes for the colour to return.
If it is delayed by two to three seconds, or very delayed by more than four seconds, a baby needs more hydration.
Check their breathing
If a baby or child’s breathing is more rapid without physical activity, this can also be an indicator of dehydration from depleted amounts of electrolytes.
Check their skin
There is a pinch test that can be a great way to determine if a baby or child is experiencing dehydration.
Gently pinch the skin to see how long it takes to resume to its normal shape.
Normal hydration levels will see it return in less than a second.
However, if it takes two seconds or longer, it may be a sign they are in need of hydration.
Check their nappy
When a baby is dehydrated, there may be less wee than the usual amount.
The urine may also be more concentrated and darker and have a stronger smell to it.
If your child is severely dehydration they may need to have fluids given to them at a hospital.Â
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