DEHYDRATION

A few months ago, my toddler caught the dreaded Rotavirus. For those of you unfamiliar with the virus, it's a nasty illness characterized by seemingly incessant diarrhea and vomiting, along with a fever. Having a child with Rotavirus is something I wouldn't wish on my worst enemies, and to make my situation even worse, I had a 3-week-old newborn to deal with as well. At least the little one didn't catch the virus! The biggest concern with Rotavirus (aside from endless washing of clothes and cleaning of carpet) is dehydration. Any time you have a person with a condition that causes a large loss of body fluid, through diarrhea, vomiting, or even excessive exercise in hot weather, dehydration is possible, even probable, unless you know what to look for, and how to prevent and treat it.


A DEFINITION OF DEHYDRATION

Dehydration occurs when there is an inadequate amount of body fluid to maintain normal body functions. Water in the body contains substances vital to normal operation of the heart, brain, and kidneys. These substances, of which potassium and sodium (salt) are the most important, are lost whenever there's a loss of body fluid, such as through vomiting, diarrhea, and even excessive sweating.


SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DEHYDRATION

Mild Dehydration

• Thirst. If you wait to drink something until you're thirsty, you're already a little bit dehydrated. This means most of us experience very mild dehydration on a regular basis.
• Dry lips.
• Your mouth may feel slightly dry.

Moderate Dehydration

• A very dry mouth.
• Eyes may look sunken.
• When you pinch your skin (such as the skin on the back of your hand), it doesn't immediately return to its normal position. This lack of elasticity is a good indicator of dehydration.
• In babies, the soft spots (fontanelles) on the infant's head may look sunken.

Severe Dehydration

• All of the above signs of moderate dehydration.
• Cold hands and feet.
• A bluish tinge around the mouth and lips.
• A weak, rapid pulse, even at rest.
• A rapid breathing rate.
• Confusion.
• Lethargy. The victim may be difficult to arouse.

FIRST AID FOR DEHYDRATION

• For mild dehydration, replacement of fluids should take care of the problem. A sports drink, such as Gatorade, is best, but plain water will do. Do not give the victim any alcohol, or drinks containing caffeine. Alcohol and caffeine are diuretics, which means that they'll just cause more fluid loss. Children who are mildly dehydrated can be given a pediatric electrolyte solution, such as Pedialyte. This replaces fluids and important minerals, without all the sugar found in sports drinks.
• For moderate dehydration, especially in children, call your doctor for advice. Children can become severely dehydrated very quickly, so let your doctor decide whether your child's dehydration can be treated at home, or requires medical attention. Intravenous fluids may be needed for moderate dehydration (child or adult).
• For severe dehydration, CALL 911. Severe dehydration is a life-threatening condition, and requires immediate medical attention. Be aware that dehydration can worsen quickly if not treated, especially in children, so prevention and early treatment of dehydration is crucial. Severe dehydration that is left untreated can result in seizures, permanent brain damage, and even death.

PREVENTION OF DEHYDRATION

• When you are exercising, make sure you're continually drinking fluid to replace those lost through sweat. In times of extreme heat, you may want to skip your workout, or exercise indoors in an air-conditioned environment to avoid dehydration and heat illness.
• If you have children, be aware that dehydration can occur during any illness. Be prepared: know the symptoms of dehydration, and it's not a bad idea to have a bottle of children's electrolyte solution on hand to avoid an emergency trip to the store with a sick child in tow! If you have any doubts or questions about the development of dehydration in your ill child, call your doctor.