Dehydration

Dehydration is when there is not enough water in the body to function normally.

Signs and symptoms

  • Headaches and lethargy

  • Mood changes and slow responses

  • Dry nasal passages

  • Dry or cracked lips

  • Dark-coloured urine

  • Weakness, tiredness

  • Confusion and hallucinations

  • Cold skin

  • A blue tinge to the skin as the circulation slows

  • A baby may have a depressed fontanelle (the soft spot on top of a baby’s skull where the bones are yet to close)

First aid

Give fluids, monitor condition. Dehydration can be a life-threatening condition in children, call an ambulance immediately.

Meirav Dulberg