Vomiting and diarrhea can cause dehydration. Dehydration can be dangerous to your baby. It can occur at any age. Dehydration necessitates a quick action and if necessary hospitalization.
What are the signs of dehydration?
Your baby may urinate less frequently with less quantity
Thirst, dry mouth
Irritability
Sunken of soft spots on your newborn baby’s head
Weight loss
Dry skin
Sleepiness
No tears
Sunken eyes
How to prevent dehydration?
In case your baby has excessive vomiting and diarrhea, you should follow these steps:
If you are breastfeeding your baby, continue to do so. Breast milk contains the necessary electrolytes and fluids that his body needs.
If your baby is under milk formula shift to lactose free milk.
Your doctor may prescribe an ORS which contains the right amount of electrolytes for your baby’s body.
Give your child lots of fluids that contain salt and potassium as soups and vegetables.
Call your doctor if your child refuses to eat anything or he is vomiting excessively. He might need intravenous infusion to restore the fluid loss.
Always check your baby for any signs of dehydration. Dehydration is serious and can lead to death in less than 24 hours. Call your doctor if you are in doubt.