12 Signs Of Dehydration In Babies, Causes, Remedies & Treatment

Be vigilant of the various symptoms to seek timely care and prevent complications.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Misha Yajnik, MD Dr. Misha Yajnik Dr. Misha YajnikMD facebook_icontwitter_iconinsta_icon Specialty: PediatricsExperience: 12 years
Written by Dr Bisny T. Joseph
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Dehydration In Babies Signs, Causes, Treatment And Prevention

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Dehydration is the lack of adequate fluid in the body. Fewer than six diapers in 24 hours or dry diapers for two to three hours indicate dehydration in babies. Any conditions causing reduced fluid intake and/or increased fluid loss may result in dehydration.

It is essential to have normal water levels for physiological functions such as urination, bowel movements, and sweating. Babies and toddlers are at higher risk of dehydration, and immediate restoration of body fluid levels is necessary to prevent adverse outcomes.

Read on to know the signs, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of dehydration in babies.

Signs And Symptoms Of Dehydration In Babies

The following signs and symptoms are seen in babies during dehydration (1).

  • Dark urine
  • Sunken eyes
  • Oliguria (less urine)
  • Dry lips and tongue
  • No tears while crying
  • Sunken fontanel (soft spot) on head
  • Irritability
  • Sleepiness
  • Unable to bottle or breastfeed
  • Wrinkly skin and cold hands
  • Constipation may occur due to dehydration if it is not caused by diarrhea
  • Abnormal breathing pattern

Dehydration in babies is usually diagnosed by evaluating the signs and symptoms along with physical examination. It is essential to monitor your baby’s health status and symptoms during home care.

Causes Of Dehydration In Babies

Not consuming enough water (fluid), especially to replace the lost fluid in the body, could result in dehydration in newborns and infants. Illness is often the cause of dehydration in older babies and toddlers.

Below are the various reasons that could lead to dehydration in babies and toddlers (2).

  • Breastfeeding issues such as inadequate or infrequent breastfeeding, latching issues, or reduced milk
  • Bottle-feeding issues, such inability to latch to a bottle’s nipple correctly, could cause insufficient feeding.
  • Climatic conditions, such as high temperature and increased humidity, may cause fluid loss through sweating.
  • Fever may increase water loss, and often babies may feed less due to fever.
  • Diarrhea may cause water loss through frequent bowel movements.
  • Pain and illnesses may cause feeding refusal in some babies.
  • Problems with sucking and swallowing due to problems, such as a stuffy nose, sore throat, and earache, may interfere with fluid intake.
  • Repeated vomiting may cause water loss from the body and often interfere with water intake.
  • Nursing strikes for a long time, especially due to illnesses, could result in dehydration.

Babies may become dehydrated even without the presence of the above-mentioned conditions. Therefore, stay observant of signs of dehydration to detect it early.

When To See A Doctor?

Always seek medical care for dehydration if your baby is younger than six months. Severe dehydration can be life-threatening in babies. You may seek advice from a pediatrician regardless of age if the baby has any signs of dehydration.

It is vital to seek immediate medical care in the following cases (3).

  • Diarrhea for more than eight hours
  • Sunken fontanel
  • Inability to feed
  • Persistent fever
  • Frequent vomiting

Treatment For Dehydration In Babies

The dehydration treatment may vary depending on the severity and underlying cause. Mild dehydration in babies older than three months can be managed at home according to the doctor’s instructions.

Oral hydration is the first step in management at home. Begin with slow oral intake with small sips of water, and increase as tolerated. The slow intake is more important than giving a large volume of fluid replacement.

If babies are not able to tolerate any oral fluids or continue to have fluid loss in the form of vomiting and diarrhea, then intravenous (IV) fluids are indicated. Babies may also receive medications to treat the underlying causes (4).

The following treatments are prescribed in outpatient care.

  • Medications for diarrhea, vomiting, and other illnesses are prescribed if needed
  • Oral rehydration solutions
  • Supplementation with infant formula is recommended if breast milk is not enough for the baby

Pediatricians may also check for breastfeeding techniques and latch. If there are any breastfeeding issues, they may refer you to a lactation consultant for further evaluation and management.

The following ways may help to keep your baby hydrated at home.

  • Monitor urine output changes, dry tongue/mouth, and decreased energy to feed or simple play and interaction.
  • Follow the doctor’s prescription to give oral rehydration solutions, such as Pedialyte.
  • Offer bottle or breastfeeding frequently if they are not feeding enough at a time.
  • Give medications for vomiting or diarrhea as per the prescription.
  • Give water or other fluids if recommended by the pediatrician. Giving wrong fluids may worsen the dehydration and underlying conditions.
  • Keep the baby in a cool place and remove excess clothes or blankets depending on the weather conditions.
  • Keep a record of feeding and wet diapers.

Prevention Of Dehydration In Babies

The following tips may help to prevent dehydration in babies (3).

  • Feed newborns frequently for enough time
  • Do not stop feeding during diarrhea or vomiting since they need more fluid to replace the loss
  • Monitor wet diapers
  • Avoid being outdoors in extreme heat and humid conditions
  • Choose bedding and clothing according to the weather
  • Avoid giving water to babies younger than six months since a small quantity may make them full, and they may feed insufficient breast milk or formula
  • Maintain hygiene to prevent infections that may cause diarrhea and vomiting
  • Take necessary vaccinations such as rotavirus vaccine

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does a dehydrated baby poop look like?

If your baby is dehydrated, they may poop less frequently, and the stool may be hard in texture since water from the colon is taken to hydrate the vital organs (5).

2. Why are infants at risk for dehydration?

Infants may be at an increased risk of dehydration because of their (6):

  • More total water content in the body
  • Increased metabolic turnover
  • More body surface area
  • Renal immaturity

Dehydration in babies may occur when they do not have sufficient water levels. It may be due to a medical illness or because your baby doesn’t consume adequate water. You may try to offer them frequent feeds, avoid extreme heat, and opt for clothing as per the climate to reduce the chances of dehydration in babies. If left untreated, dehydration may increase the risk of complications such as hypotension and hypovolemia (low fluid volume). Therefore, contact a pediatrician if your baby has constant diarrhea or vomiting or you spot any signs of dehydration such as less and dark urine, dry lips and mouth, and tiredness.

Key Pointers

  • Climatic conditions, diarrhea, and repeated vomiting are common causes of dehydration in babies.
  • Some signs of dehydration are dry lips, irritability, and wrinkly skin.
  • If you notice persistent fever, excessive diarrhea, or inability to feed, consult your doctor.

References

1. Signs of Dehydration in Infants & Children; American Academy of Pediatrics
2. Pediatric Dehydration; U.S. National Library of Medicine
3. Dehydration; Raising Children Network
4. Managing Acute Gastroenteritis Among Children; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
5. Your child’s poop: An ultimate guide; CHOC
6. Dehydration; Society of Academic Emergency Medicine
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Dr. Misha Yajnik
Dr. Misha YajnikMD
Dr. Misha Yajnik is an American Board Certified general pediatrician practicing in the US. She did her undergraduate studies at Youngstown State University in Ohio and obtained her MD degree from Ross University School of Medicine in Dominica.

Read full bio of Dr. Misha Yajnik
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