How to spot dehydration in others

Spotting the signs of dehydration in yourself is one thing, but recognizing it in friends, family or work colleagues can be more challenging. Knowing the telltale signs of dehydration is particularly important for parents and carers who are caring for children and vulnerable people. So, how do you know someone is dehydrated?

Symptoms of dehydration in children 

Children’s bodies naturally contain more water, which means they can be more at risk of dehydration. They are often less aware of their own needs and sometimes unable to communicate if they’re having issues. 

Ensuring children are hydrated is not just about health either. Research shows that hydrated children learn better. One study looked at the effects of drinking water on cognition in children and found that those who drank additional water performed better on visual attention tasks. 

Look out for these common mild symptoms that could suggest a child or infant is suffering from dehydration:

• Being more fussy or irritable
• No tears when crying
• Increase in thirst
• Dry mouth or tongue
• An increased heart rate and breathing rate
• A decrease in urine output
• Dry or wrinkled skin

When dehydration becomes more serious in a child, there are some more severe symptoms to look out for that include:

• Being too weak to cry
• Increased heart rate
• A weak pulse
• Dry nappies/diapers
• Too weak to drink fluids/suckle

If the child or infant is experiencing some of these symptoms, you should seek medical help to understand the appropriate action to take.

Symptoms of dehydration in the elderly 

Older adults are particularly susceptible to dehydration. One recent study suggested that one of the ten most frequent reasons leading to the hospitalization in the elderly was dehydration.

This can be caused by physiological changes as we age, our fluid reserves becoming smaller and certain medications that increase the chances of dehydration.

Some of the symptoms associated with the elderly suffering from dehydration include:

• Low blood pressure
• Dizziness or suffering from headaches
• Constipation 
• Struggling to sweat
• Dry mouth
• Trouble walking

Please take care of your elderly family, friends and neighbours and if you believe they are experiencing severe dehydration, help them seek medical attention. 

If you are aware of any heart or kidney conditions, please contact your doctor before consuming SOS. 

An easy way to keep hydrated

SOS Hydration is a medically formulated electrolyte drink which provides quick and effective hydration for all the family, including the more vulnerable, children and elderly. SOS contains all the vital electrolytes plus lots of added vitamins to keep the body healthy and hydrated. Simply mix a scoop or stick of SOS powder with water or grab one of our easy daily electrolyte, vitamin and mineral drinks and enjoy! 

Find out more about the benefits of SOS for all the family.