Babies can become dehydrated more quickly than older children and adults because their bodies are smaller and they lose fluids faster. That’s why it helps to know the early signs and watch for changes in your baby’s usual routine.
Here’s your quick guide to dehydration in infants and what you can do about it.
Common Signs of Dehydration in Babies
Signs of dehydration in babies may include:
- Fewer wet diapers than usual
- Dry mouth
- Fewer tears when crying
- Unusual fussiness
- Decreased activity
- A sunken soft spot on top of the head
- Poor feeding
- Increased sleepiness
Diaper frequency varies by age and feeding patterns, so the most important thing is to notice changes from your baby’s normal routine. Baby dehydration symptoms can start small and become more noticeable over time.
We recommend keeping track of your baby’s day-to-day patterns so you can notice when things are off, like signs of dehydration.
Why Do Babies Become Dehydrated?
Babies need proper levels of fluid each day just like the rest of us. Because they’re solely dependent on us for sustenance, they can become dehydrated more easily.
The most common causes of dehydration in babies include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Poor feeding
- Illness
- Excessive fluid loss
Often, more than one of these happens at once. For example, a baby with a stomach bug may have vomiting and diarrhea while also feeding less than usual.
How Many Wet Diapers Should a Baby Have?
Does your baby have fewer wet diapers than usual? That’s often one of the first changes parents notice.
After the first week of life, many babies have about 6 or more wet diapers a day. Every baby is a little different, so it helps to know what’s typical for your little one. When your baby has fewer wet diapers than normal, that may be an early warning sign that they aren’t getting enough fluids.
Very young newborns have different expectations from older infants, though. During the first days after birth, babies usually have fewer wet diapers, and the number gradually increases as feeding gets established. If you have questions about your newborn’s diaper count, a provider can help.
Dehydration From Vomiting or Diarrhea
Stomach illnesses are one of the most frequent reasons a baby becomes dehydrated.
Vomiting and diarrhea cause the body to lose fluids quickly, and a baby who doesn’t feel well may also be less interested in feeding. A dehydrated infant who is still vomiting or having frequent diarrhea may need closer monitoring and a provider’s guidance.
How to Help Prevent Dehydration
When your baby is sick, these steps can help protect against dehydration:
- Continue breast milk or formula
- Offer feeds regularly, even if your baby takes smaller amounts
- Monitor wet diapers
- Follow provider guidance about oral rehydration solutions
- Avoid replacing breast milk or formula with plain water in young infants
Sports drinks and rehydration products made for adults aren’t designed for babies, so avoid using them unless a provider recommends otherwise.
An important note: Don’t give water to a baby under 6 months of age. Even small amounts of water can fill their tiny bellies and leave less room for breast milk or formula, and too much water can lead to a dangerous condition called water intoxication.
When to Visit KidsStreet
Pediatric urgent care may help when your baby has possible mild dehydration or feeding concerns without emergency symptoms. Pediatric urgent care may be appropriate when you notice:
- Fewer wet diapers than usual
- Mild feeding difficulties
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Fever with reduced fluid intake
- Changes in activity
- Concerns about hydration
You know your baby best, and your concern is a good reason to have a provider take a look.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Go to the nearest emergency room or call 9-1-1 if your child has:
- Extreme sleepiness or difficulty waking
- Very little or no urine output
- Inability to keep fluids down with signs of significant dehydration
- Trouble breathing
- Blue or gray lips or face
- Loss of consciousness
- Symptoms that feel life-threatening
If you’re ever unsure whether something is an emergency, it’s always okay to choose the emergency room.
What to Expect at KidsStreet
When you visit, a medical provider will review your baby’s symptoms, including feeding, vomiting, diarrhea, and wet diapers. The provider will assess your baby’s hydration, perform an exam, and make recommendations for further care when appropriate to help you understand what to do next.
Visit KidsStreet for Dehydration Concerns
Watching your baby feel unwell is tough, and keeping track of fluids and diapers can feel like a lot. If you’re worried about your baby’s hydration, we’re here to help.
KidsStreet is open late 7 days a week! Register online to save your spot in line! Online registration is not an appointment, but it can help reduce in-clinic wait times by adding you to the queue before you arrive.