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Signs & Symptoms of Dehydration Due to Diarrhea

Diarrhea in older adults and young children can rapidly lead to dehydration. Recognition of signs and symptoms of dehydration can lead to prompt treatment of this potentially life-threatening complication.

  1. Mild to Moderate Dehydration

    • Signs and symptoms of mild to moderate dehydration include dry mouth, thirst, weakness, decreased urination, dizziness, lightheadedness, few or no tears when crying, and headache, and children might appear more sleepy or tired than usual.

    Severe Dehydration

    • Signs and symptoms of severe dehydration include excessive thirst, irritability, confusion, very dry mouth or skin, inability to sweat, dark-colored urine, little to no urination, sunken eyes, low blood pressure, rapid heartbeat and fever. The soft spot on the top of an infants head can be sunken.

    Prevention

    • Drink extra liquids such as water and broths while experiencing diarrhea. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, salty broths, milk, soda, fruit juice and gelatin because they can aggravate dehydration and diarrhea.

    Considerations

    • Contact your physician if you experience diarrhea lasting longer than three days, severe stomach or rectal pain, bloody or black stools, temperature of 102 degrees F or greater, signs of severe dehydration or dehydration that doesn't improve with an increased fluid intake.

    Warning

    • Contact your child's physician if the diarrhea doesn't improve within 24 hours, and if the child exhibits signs and symptoms of dehydration. Your physician might suggest a rehydration solution such as Pedialyte to replace lost fluids.

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