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Electrolytes are essential for the proper functioning of the body. Their deficiency can lead to serious complications in both adults and children, who are particularly vulnerable to a lack of electrolytes during the disease. We indicate how to choose the best solutions, as well as how the electrolyte deficiency in a child manifests itself.
Electrolytes for children – what are they needed for?
Electrolytes are water solutions of salt ions that are found in body fluids of organisms. The electrolytes include sodium, magnesium, potassium and iodine. It is thanks to them that the acid-base balance and water and electrolyte balance are maintained in the body. Electrolytes are responsible for the nutrition and oxygenation of cells.
Electrolyte deficiency it leads to a serious imbalance, which is very dangerous for both children and adults. The more that electrolytes are also responsible for the proper functioning of the nervous and muscular systems.
Causes of dehydration in children
Children are at high risk of becoming dehydrated and thus losing electrolytes. The most common causes include diarrhea, vomiting and fever. Stomach flu in children, infectious diseases, and increased physical activity can also lead to dehydration. Overheating the body is another cause of electrolyte loss in children. In this case, it is also worth paying attention to how much fluids the little ones consume during the day. Too little can also lead to dehydration.
Electrolytes for children – the most common symptoms of dehydration
Both in the case of children and adults, dehydration can occur very quickly, so the patient should be given electrolyte preparations as soon as possible. Disturbing symptoms of electrolyte deficiency in childrenwhich should attract adults’ attention are:
- too little urine;
- constant thirst;
- dizziness;
- headaches;
- excessive sleepiness;
- fainting;
- palpable heart rhythm disturbances.
In infants, the sunken fontanelle is most noticeable. If the symptoms worsen, you should see a doctor as soon as possible, who will diagnose the toddler.
Electrolytes for children – what will be the best?
Regardless of the patient’s condition, there should always be a place in the home medicine cabinet for electrolytes that may be useful in an emergency. Electrolytes for children from 3 years of age are usually taken orally. Special powdered solutions should be dissolved in water according to the package leaflet. Electrolytes can also be in the form of effervescent tablets. They usually have a sweet taste (blueberry, banana or strawberry).
For adults, you can also buy electrolytes in a variety of flavors. We recommend, for example:
- Aqua Kick Electrolyte – a set of electrolytes in OstroVit sachets,
- OxeoORS electrolytes for replenishing water and electrolytes,
- Isotonic powder for the regulation of water and electrolyte balance OstroVit.
Electrolytes for children – how to dose?
In the first four hours, there are 50-100 ml of solution per kilogram of body weight. This dose may be supplemented in the event of diarrhea or vomiting by 5-10 ml. In addition, in the case of frequent vomiting of the child, it is worth waiting a few minutes to administer the solution. The fluid should be administered in small sips that will not cause further vomiting.