Dehydration
Severe dehydration means:
- Your mouth and eyes may be extremely dry.
- You may pass little or no urine for 12 or more hours.
- You may not feel alert or be able to think clearly.
- You may be too weak or dizzy to stand.
- You may pass out.
Moderate dehydration means:
- You may be a lot more thirsty than usual.
- Your mouth and eyes may be drier than usual.
- You may pass little or no urine for 8 or more hours.
- You may feel dizzy when you stand or sit up.
Mild dehydration means:
- You may be more thirsty than usual.
- You may pass less urine than usual.
Mild to moderate dehydration is treated at home by drinking more fluids. Treatment for moderate to severe dehydration may include I.V. fluids and a stay in the hospital.
Dehydration is very dangerous for babies, small children, and older adults. It is most dangerous for newborns. Watch closely for early symptoms anytime there is an illness that causes a high fever, vomiting, or diarrhea.
What are the signs of dehydration in a child?
As your child becomes dehydrated, thirst increases, and their mouth or eyes may feel or look very dry. Your child may also lack energy and want to be held a lot. Your child will not urinate as often as usual.
How can you care for your child who has dehydration?
- Give your child lots of fluids to drink a little at a time. This is very important if your child is vomiting or has diarrhea. Give your child sips of water or drinks such as Pedialyte or Infalyte. These drinks contain a mix of salt, sugar, and minerals. You can buy them at drugstores or grocery stores. Give these drinks as long as your child is throwing up or has diarrhea. Do not use them as the only source of liquids or food for more than 12 to 24 hours.
- Make sure your child is drinking often and has access to healthy fluids when thirsty. Drinking frequent, small amounts works best. Check with your doctor to see how much fluid your child needs.
- Make sure your child gets plenty of rest.
Dehydration: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You are confused and cannot think clearly.
- You are dizzy or lightheaded, or you feel like you may faint.
- You have signs of needing more fluids. You have sunken eyes, a dry mouth, and you pass only a little urine.
- You cannot keep fluids down.
- You have diarrhea that lasts for more than a few days.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You are not making tears.
- Your skin is very dry and sags slowly back into place after you pinch it.
- Your mouth and eyes are very dry.
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