Overhydration occurs when the body takes in more water than it excretes and its sodium levels are diluted. As a consequence, digestive problems, changes in behavior, brain damage, seizures, and even coma can occur.
Infants appear to be at greater risk for overhydration than adults. All the fluids a healthy baby needs are provided by breast milk or baby formula. In extremely hot weather, water should only be given slowly, sparingly, and in small amounts. A baby may experience overhydration after drinking too much water, excreting too little fluid, or consuming and retaining too much water during swimming lessons.
Signs of overhydration
The most common signs of overhydration include:
- Unusually clear urine
- Irregular breathing
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Swelling (arms, legs, face)
- Low body temperature
- Dizziness
Consult your pediatrician if you observe any of these symptoms in your baby.
Causes of overhydration
A baby does not consume water voluntarily.
Caretakers may overfeed babies with water in the following ways, resulting in water intoxication (overhydration):
- Water and diluted juices are not necessary for babies younger than six months. Exclusive breastfeeding or baby formula feeding meets their hydration needs best. Some parents may feed their babies diluted juices and water to keep them hydrated and to provide nutrition. Since the child’s kidneys are immature, it is not suitable for them.
- Dilution of the baby formula: Different formula brands like HiPP and Kendamil formula require different amounts of water for preparation. It is recommended that parents follow the instructions on the package and use the mixing ratio as specified. In contrast, too much water dilutes a formula, disrupting electrolyte balance and nutritional intake, and causing water intoxication.
- Using a cup instead of a bottle. Without supervision, babies sip water from cups, causing them to gulp excess water.
Treatment
You cannot treat water intoxication in babies at home. You should take your baby to the doctor if your baby shows excessive water intake symptoms. In order to resolve symptoms, the doctor will chart a treatment plan based on the severity of the symptoms.
It is usually possible to resolve the condition by restricting a baby’s water intake and letting extra water exit the body through urination. In severe cases, the doctor may prescribe diuretics and intravenous saline drips to restore sodium levels.
Final thoughts
Consult your pediatrician before giving a baby under 6 months old water to drink if you feel it is important that the child drinks water. Although your child should not need it as they can get all the hydration they need through nursing or drinking baby formula. The Milky Box has a variety of baby formulas that can provide the necessary nutrition and hydration for your baby. If you decide to give your baby water, make sure it is properly sterile and cooled down so that there are no bacteria present in the water. Monitor your baby’s fluid intake, as too much water, can be dangerous for young babies.
If you believe your child has taken in too much water or if they are acting strange, head straight to the emergency room for prompt medical attention. A baby’s sodium level will determine how he or she is treated for water intoxication.
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