What Are the Warning Signs of Dehydration and Its Risks?
Dehydration may cause a lot of damage for an issue with such an easy fix. It’s not as difficult as you may believe for your toddler to become dehydrated, whether they simply don’t have access to water or are experiencing gastrointestinal (GI) problems like diarrhea [5] and vomiting.
The risks of dehydration are higher in young children than older children and adults due to their smaller water reserves and more compact bodies.
Your 1- to 3-year-old may exhibit the following symptoms of dehydration:
- low vigor
- little to no urine output or urine that is very black in color
- dry lips or skin
- extreme fussiness or agitation
- cold skin
- no tears shed during sobbing.
Offer water frequently when your child is active and don’t be afraid to call or see a healthcare provider if you observe these symptoms if dehydration persists for an extended period of time.