Is less than 1 month old
Has extreme lethargy
Has skin that doesn't bounce back when pinched
Is breathing fast
Is confused
Dehydration is a risk in babies and toddlers, especially in kids with vomiting, diarrhea, or fever. Take signs of dehydration seriously.
Call Doctor If
You are worried that your child may be dehydrated.
Your child has been vomiting for more than 12 hours.
Your child has had diarrhea for more than 24 hours.
You see signs of dehydration like dry diapers or no urine for eight hours, dry lips, sunken soft spot on the head, and crying with no tears.
1. Cool Off
If your child has been in the sun or heat, get into a cool place.
Dress your child in cool, lightweight clothing. This will also help if he has a fever.
2. Offer Fluids
Give fluids in small amounts. Avoid juice or soda. If the child vomits afterward, wait 20 to 30 minutes and give the fluids again. If a child has vomited two or more times, call your pediatrician.
If your infant is breastfeeding, continue to nurse your baby. Let him nurse more often.
Your pediatrician may want you to give your baby small amounts of oral electrolyte solution. Check the amount with your doctor.
Give toddlers about 1 tablespoon of oral electrolyte solution, ice chips, water, ice pops, or clear broth every 15 minutes.
3. Go Slowly
Encourage your child to take small frequent sips instead of drinking a lot at once.
Offer Popsicles made with rehydration solution.
4. Observe Your Child
If your child's symptoms aren't getting better, or your child continues to vomit, call your pediatrician or go to the emergency room.
If your child is vomiting, do not give him acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Don't give aspirin to a child under 16 years old.
