Summer Baby Care: How To Avoid Dehydration In Babies

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In babies, dehydration occurs when they lose so much body fluid that they are unable to maintain their normal functions. Signs of dehydration include dry skin, tongue, and lips, rapid breathing, fewer wet diapers, and tearless crying.

And in summer, your baby is at increased risk of dehydration [1].

Dehydration In Babies: Symptoms

It is important to note that the signs and symptoms of dehydration may differ depending on how much water your baby has lost, as well as whether the child is a newborn, baby, or toddler.

There are several common signs of dehydration in newborns, including a soft spot on the top of the head that has sunk, sleeping too much, sunken eyes, crying without tears, cold or discoloured hands and feet, and wrinkled skin [2].

How To Avoid Dehydration In Babies

The treatments and remedies for your child's dehydration depend on the cause and the age of the child.

1. Regularly breastfeed your baby

The best thing to do if your newborn has not yet learned to latch on is to continue breastfeeding at regular intervals. Let your baby latch on for a few minutes and then take a break. Try again in 15 minutes or so [3].

2. Consider using a bottle or dropper for feeding

If your newborn is not able to breastfeed or you are not yet making enough breast milk, consider pumping breast milk or making baby formula. Consider feeding your baby milk gently with a bottle, sterile dropper, or a tiny baby spoon.

3. Prepare iced treats

If you want your toddler to drink more liquid, have them drink an iced treat. You can make your own sugar-free kind by freezing puréed fruit and juice [4].

4. Try juicy foods

If your baby or toddler is fussy about drinking water or milk, give them fruit and vegetables like watermelon, plums, and cucumbers.

Dehydration In Babies: When To Call A Doctor

Due to their small size, babies and toddlers can get dehydrated quickly. Newborns have such small stomachs that they can't hold much milk at once. Call your doctor if you notice any symptoms [5].

Don't wait if your newborn baby can't suck or drink from a bottle or if they're not able to hold any milk down and are spitting up and vomiting a lot.

Bottomline

Dehydration in babies can develop quickly, especially during hot weather, but simple steps like regular feeding, offering fluids, and watching for early signs can help keep your little one safe and healthy. If symptoms seem severe or persistent, seeking medical attention promptly is essential.