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5 signs your child could be dehydrated
19th September, 2026 03:19 PM
Children can lose fluids quickly when they have diarrhoea, vomiting, fever or are not drinking enough water. If these fluids are not replaced, a child can become dehydrated.
Dehydration happens when the body loses more fluids than it takes in. It can become serious, especially in babies and young children, so parents need to pay attention to changes in their child.
Here are five signs that could point to dehydration.
1. Fewer wet diapers or less frequent urination
One of the easiest signs to notice is a change in how often a child urinates. A baby may have fewer wet diapers than usual, while an older child may go for longer periods without using the toilet.
Parents should pay attention to a clear change from the child’s normal urination pattern.
2. Dry mouth and lips
A child who is dehydrated may have a dry mouth, dry lips or a sticky feeling inside the mouth. Babies may also produce fewer tears when crying.
These changes can happen because the body does not have enough fluid to maintain normal moisture levels.
3. Unusual tiredness or sleepiness
A sick child may naturally be less active, but unusual weakness, tiredness or sleepiness can be a warning sign.
Parents should take particular notice if the child is difficult to wake, unusually quiet or not responding normally.
4. Sunken eyes
Dehydration can sometimes cause a child’s eyes to appear sunken. This may be more noticeable when the child has also been experiencing vomiting or diarrhoea.
In babies, parents should also pay attention to the soft spot on the head. If it appears more sunken than usual, the child should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
5. The child is not drinking well
A child who is sick may refuse food or drinks. However, not drinking enough fluids can make dehydration worse.
If a child is repeatedly vomiting, unable to drink, refusing breastfeeds or taking much less fluid than usual, parents should seek medical advice.
