5-10% dehydration in a child
Last reviewed 01/2018
5-10% dehydration in a child
5-10% dehydration, ie a loss of between 5- 10% of body weight; the child is classified as having 'some dehydration'
Two or more of the below signs are present:
- general appearance - restless, irritable
- eyes - sunken
- thirst - thirsty, drinks eagerly
- skin pinch - goes back slowly (1)
Note:
- in some infants and children the eyes normally appear somewhat sunken. It is helpful to ask the mother if the child's eyes are normal or more sunken than usual
- the skin pinch is less useful in infants or children with marasmus or kwashiorkor, or obese children (1)
Reference: