Dehydration In Children: Signs, Symptoms & When To Seek Emergency Care

Children’s bodies are made up of more water than adults, which means they can become dehydrated much more quickly. Whether it is caused by illness, hot weather, or not drinking enough fluids, dehydration in children can become serious if not treated promptly. At The Emergency Center, we see dehydration in kids of all ages and provide fast, effective treatment to help them recover safely.

Knowing the signs of dehydration and when to seek emergency care can make a big difference in your child’s health.

Signs And Symptoms Of Dehydration In Children By Age Group

Infants (Birth to 12 months)

Infants are especially vulnerable to dehydration because their bodies lose fluids quickly and they cannot communicate thirst.

Common signs of dehydration in infants include:

  • Fewer wet diapers than normal, typically fewer than six in 24 hours
  • Dry mouth or lips
  • No tears when crying
  • Sunken soft spot on the top of the head
  • Lethargy or unusual sleepiness

Dehydration in infants can worsen rapidly and should always be evaluated by a medical professional.

Toddlers & Preschoolers (1 to 5 years old)

Dehydration in this age group is often caused by vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or refusal to drink fluids.

Signs to watch for include:

  • Decreased urination or dark yellow urine
  • Dry lips or sticky mouth
  • Irritability or fussiness
  • Fatigue or low energy
  • Complaints of thirst

Young children may resist drinking fluids even when they need them, which can make dehydration more severe.

School-Age Children (6 to 12 years old)

Older children are more active and may become dehydrated during sports, outdoor play, or illness.
Symptoms may include:

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Dry mouth and cracked lips
  • Decreased urination
  • Muscle cramps

Children in this age group may not recognize early dehydration symptoms or may ignore them to keep playing.

Teenagers (13 to 18 years old)

Teens are at risk for dehydration due to sports, intense physical activity, illness, or not drinking enough water throughout the day.

Common signs include:

  • Extreme thirst
  • Dark-colored urine or infrequent urination
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Confusion or difficulty concentrating

Dehydration in teenagers can affect athletic performance and overall health if not addressed.

Complications And Health Risks Of Untreated Dehydration In Children

If dehydration is not treated, it can lead to more serious complications, including:

  • Electrolyte imbalances
  • Heat exhaustion or heat stroke
  • Kidney strain or kidney injury
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Low blood pressure

In severe cases, dehydration can become life-threatening, especially in infants and young children.

What To Do If You Suspect Dehydration

If you believe your child may be dehydrated:

  • Encourage small, frequent sips of water or oral rehydration solution
  • Avoid sugary drinks, soda, or fruit juice
  • Monitor urine output and overall behavior
  • Seek medical care if symptoms worsen or your child cannot keep fluids down

If your child is lethargic, confused, has not urinated for many hours, or has persistent vomiting or diarrhea, emergency care is recommended.

Pediatric Emergency Treatment For Dehydration At The Emergency Center

At The Emergency Center, we are equipped to quickly assess and treat dehydration in children of all ages. Our freestanding emergency rooms for children are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and offer hospital-level care without long wait times.

We provide:

  • Rapid medical evaluation by board-certified emergency physicians
  • On-site lab testing when needed
  • Intravenous fluids to restore hydration safely
  • Treatment for underlying causes such as infection or stomach illness
  • Child-friendly care focused on comfort and reassurance

Our team closely monitors your child’s response to treatment and explains every step of care so parents feel confident and informed.

When To Take Your Child To The Emergency Room For Dehydration

If your child shows signs of moderate to severe dehydration, cannot keep fluids down, or seems unusually tired or confused, it is important to seek emergency care right away. At The Emergency Center, we are here for life’s unexpected moments. Our experienced team is ready to provide fast, compassionate care to help your child feel better and get back to being a kid as quickly as possible.

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The Emergency Center

San Antonio
11320 Alamo Ranch Pkwy
San Antonio, TX 78253
Phone: 210-485-3644

Conroe
4019 Interstate 45 N,
Conroe, TX 77304
Phone: 936-247-9457