articles

Preventing and Treating Dehydration

Everyone worries that a kid is going to become dehydrated when she develops vomiting or diarrhea. It can be very difficult to know if a child is dehydrated and the diagnosis generally requires looking at the whole kid. Happy and smiley? Not dehydrated. No matter how little you think she has had to drink or how little you think she has urinated.

Dehydration is best prevented, rather than treated. However, if your little one begins to appear dehydrated (as described in Chapter 6), you still may not need to go to the ER. Many parents falsely believe that all dehydrated children require IV fluids, but this just isn’t true. There is a very good chance that you can help your child feel better quickly with just a few simple tools, a couple of hours, and some patience.  Once your kid begins to improve, she’ll take over and finish replacing her fluid needs without any help from you.

The information herein is not intended to replace the services of trained health professionals, or be a substitute for medical advice. You are advised to consult with your health care professional with regard to matters relating to health, and in particular regarding matters that may require diagnosis or medical attention.

 

Dr. Lara Zibners, Feb 24, 2009

share this

Find more articles like this one:

Comments

Discuss this article.

No Comments yet.

Commenting is not available in this section entry.
 

connect




 Subscribe in a reader

buy the book

reviews

"WHAT I LIKED: This book is written in a funny, down to earth way that doesn't make you feel like an idiot. I really would have appreciated something like this when my kids were really little and I freaked out over everything they put in their mouths. It has a scenario/question and answer format, with clear answers on when not to panic and when to call 911."

- Chic Book Chick

read reviews »

events


media

media page »


media

media page »


Find...