Brilio.net - Dehydration in babies is a condition that must be treated immediately because it can affect the baby's overall health. Dehydration occurs when a baby's body loses more fluids than it gets, either through sweat, tears, or urine. Because babies cannot express their thirst, it is important for parents to know how to check for dehydration in babies. Here are 7 ways to check for dehydration in babies that you can do to ensure that your baby stays healthy and hydrated.
1. How to check dehydration in babies through urine
One way to check for dehydration in babies is to pay attention to the frequency and color of urine. If your baby doesn't urinate at least every 6-8 hours, or the urine is dark yellow and has a strong odor, it could be a sign of dehydration. A baby who is sufficiently hydrated will have clear or pale yellow urine. Make sure to always check your baby's diaper regularly as a way to check for dehydration in babies.
2. How to check dehydration in babies by paying attention to dry mouth
A dry or sticky mouth can also be a sign of dehydration. This way of checking for dehydration in babies involves examining the baby's mouth and lips. If the mouth and lips appear dry, and there is not enough saliva, it can indicate that the baby is dehydrated. You can try giving breast milk or other fluids to see if this condition improves.
3. How to check dehydration in babies by monitoring skin conditions
Elastic and moist skin is a sign that the baby is sufficiently hydrated. This way of checking dehydration in babies is done by gently pinching the baby's skin on the stomach or the back of the hand. If the skin does not immediately return to its original position or appears wrinkled, it could indicate that the baby is dehydrated. Consult a doctor immediately if you find this sign on your baby's skin.
4. How to check dehydration in babies by paying attention to the baby's eyes.
Sunken or dry eyes are one sign of dehydration in babies. How to check dehydration in babies can be done by observing whether the baby's eyes appear to be more sunken in the eye sockets or there are not enough tears when crying. Sunken or dry eyes indicate that the baby is losing a lot of fluids and needs immediate treatment.
5. How to check dehydration in babies by observing their behavior
Changes in your baby's behavior, such as being more fussy, irritable, or less responsive, can be signs of dehydration. How to check for dehydration in babies involves observing your baby's daily activities. If your baby seems lethargic, inactive, or sleeping more than usual, check their fluid levels immediately. A dehydrated baby may also refuse to breastfeed or eat.
6. How to check dehydration in babies by checking their heart rate
A fast or irregular heartbeat can be a sign of serious dehydration in babies. This way of checking dehydration in babies is done by checking the baby's pulse on the wrist or neck. If the pulse feels faster than usual, or if the baby seems to be having difficulty breathing, you should immediately take him to the nearest medical facility to get the right help.
7. How to check dehydration in babies by assessing the baby's fontanel
Fontanel is a soft part of the baby's head that is not yet fully covered by the skull bone. How to check dehydration in babies can be done by checking whether the fontanel looks concave or flat. A concave fontanel indicates that the baby may be dehydrated. Immediately provide enough fluids and consult a doctor if this condition occurs.