Cures for Dehdydration

Dehydration occurs when your body does not have enough water to function properly. Rehydration is necessary to maintain the chemical balance of your body. Symptoms of dehydration include headaches, fatigue, dark colored or strong-smelling urine, thirst and inability to sweat or cry. Illnesses like fever, vomiting and diarrhea can cause dehydration. Understanding how to treat dehydration is essential for avoiding serious health problems.

Dehydration in Infants and Toddlers

• Infants are constantly losing water, through urination, diarrhea, spitting up or vomiting, and dehydration can happen easily. Caregivers should pay attention when changing infants to check if urine has become darker or stronger smelling. If your infant shows signs of dehydration, continue to breast-feed him, and offer him cool water in a bottle. Talk to your doctor, as he may recommend that you also purchase a rehydration solution like Pedialyte, which will replace electrolytes. Do not increase the amount of juice that you give your toddler; juice will not rehydrate him. Do not give him sports drinks, which contain too much sugar. If the infant or toddler shows serious symptoms, or does not show improvement, take him to the emergency room for treatment.

Dehydration in Children

• Small children can experience dehydration, especially after prolonged physical activity. Oral rehydration solutions are the best solution for dealing with dehydration in children---avoid soda, juice, milk or sports drinks because they often contain too much sugar for proper rehydration. If a child is vomiting, encourage him to drink small amounts of water or rehydration formula at regular intervals, such as a teaspoon each minute, to maximize absorption. In many developing countries, World Health Organization powdered rehydration formulas are available, but it is advisable to carry powdered rehydration formula with you while traveling with children in hot climates. If your child continues to exhibit serious symptoms, seek medical attention.

Dehydration in Adults

• Often, dehydration in adults is less severe since adults are better able to internally monitor their levels of hydration. For most adults, drinking cool water at an even pace will be sufficient for dealing with dehydration. Do not gulp large quantities of cold water---even if this is your first instinct. The quantity and temperature often over-stresses the body and can cause nausea or vomiting. If you have experienced significant sweating during physical activities and sports, for example, then a sports drink with electrolytes can be helpful, though cool water is often just as effective. Avoid drinking coffee, juice or soda. If dehydration persists or worsens, seek medical attention. Extreme dehydration can be fatal, and in emergency situations, intravenous treatment may be necessary.