Severe dehydration in children

Content provided by Healthwise

Severe dehydration in children

By the time a child becomes severely dehydrated, there is no longer enough fluid in the body to carry enough blood to vital organs. Shock, which is a life-threatening condition, can develop quickly.

A severely dehydrated child may not be able to cooperate or communicate.

Symptoms of severe dehydration in a young child may include:

A lack of interest in playing.
Extreme sleepiness. The child may be so sleepy that he or she is difficult to wake up.
A dry mouth and tongue. Your child's tongue may look parched or cracked.
A sunken soft spot (fontanel) on top of the head.
Sunken eyes without tears.
Fast breathing and rapid heartbeat.
No urination for more than 12 hours.

Severe dehydration is a medical emergency. Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.