As harmful as dehydration may be for adults, it is far more so for young children and babies who can quickly lose abnormally large quantities of water through fever, diarrhea and vomiting. In the most severe cases, babies and young children may not be able to replace lost water through normal drinking and eating. Pediatric oral electrolyte solutions such as Pediatric Electrolyte® help to restore a child’s electrolyte balance. (Electrolytes are minerals such as sodium and potassium that are critical to life and may be severely depleted through loss of body fluids.) To prevent or treat dehydration during bouts of fever, vomiting or diarrhea, you should encourage your little one to sip an oral electrolyte solution as frequently as possible. (Juices and sodas are not recommended if your child is dehydrated. The sugar may draw water into the intestine, causing diarrhea to worsen.)
In warm or hot weather, be sure to encourage your child to drink fluids frequently to replace those lost to perspiration. Juicy fruits and Pediatric Electrolyte® popsicles are tasty options that will help keep your child well-hydrated. Pediatric Electrolyte® and Pediatric Electrolyte® popsicles are available from London Drugs.