Dehydration occurs when the body loses too much water. This can occur if a child loses large amounts of fluid through diarrhea, vomiting, or sweating. Dehydration decreases the amount of blood that circulates to the child's organs. Severe dehydration can cause shock, a life-threatening condition.

Dehydration in small children can develop rapidly and be very dangerous. Watch closely for early signs of dehydration any time your child has a high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or is too sick to drink.

A young child will not be able to tell you if he or she is feeling dehydrated, so you must look for the symptoms.

A child with mild dehydration:

• Is fussy.
• Acts hungry or thirsty most of the time.
• Urinates less frequently than usual or needs fewer diaper changes. The urine will have a strong odor and be dark yellow.

A child with moderate dehydration:

• Has decreased interest in play.
• Has a sunken soft spot (fontanel) in the head.
• Has sunken eyes with few tears. The child's mouth is dry, with little or no saliva.
• Appears to be very hungry or thirsty.
• Is irritable, agitated, or restless.
• Has not urinated for 8 hours or has urinated fewer than 3 times (had fewer than 3 wet diapers) in 24 hours.
• May have arms or legs that feel cool to the touch.
• May have a rapid heartbeat.

Severe dehydration is a medical emergency. Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.

A child with severe dehydration:

• Has little or no interest in his or her surroundings.
• May be so sleepy that he or she is difficult to wake up.
• May be unconscious.
• Has a dry mouth and tongue. The child's tongue may look parched or cracked.
• Has a sunken soft spot (fontanel) on top of the head.
• Has sunken eyes without tears.
• Has fast breathing and a rapid heartbeat. You may not be able to feel the child's pulse.
• Has not urinated for more than 12 hours.