The most severe cases of dehydration may require hospitalization and intravenous fluids. In many parts of the world, clean, readily available drinking water is a real luxury. In this country, we are fortunate to have it available to everyone. However, if you live in an old house with copper pipes, have your water analyzed to make sure it does not contain lead from the solder used to join the pipes. You may wish to install a home water filter system to ensure that your family is not ingesting chlorine, chemical contaminants, bacteria, or pesticides.
Water quality varies from place to place.
Usually, your county health department has information on the water in your area. Water is cheap, readily available, and can make a real contribution to your child s overall health and well-being. Marybetts Sinclair, LMT, is a licensed massage therapist. She specializes in massage for children with disabilities and teaches it to parents and therapists in the US and abroad. She and her family make their home in Oregon.