Dehydration is a condition in which the body doesn't have enough water to function properly. Your child's body can lose a lot of water if he or she has diarrhea, is vomiting, or has been exercising for a long time without having anything to drink. If water is not adequately replaced in the body, complications can include decreased activity, weakness, electrolyte imbalances, and, in cases of extreme dehydration, death. Infants and young children are at greatest risk for dehydration. Sick children may become dehydrated if they do not want to drink because their stomach hurts or if they are very weak.
Dehydration can be a medical emergency.
Your child is difficult to arouse. Your child appears limp and weak. Your child doesn't seem to recognize you. Encourage your child to drink. Since dehydration, no matter what the cause, involves high loss of body water, the goal is to replace it.