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June 19, 2013
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Dehydration in Children (cont.)

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Dehydration in Children Diagnosis

The doctor will perform a thorough history and physical exam in an effort to determine the severity and cause of the dehydration.

Specific laboratory tests may be ordered.

  • A complete blood count may identify an infection.
  • Blood cultures may identify the specific kind of infection.
  • Blood chemistries may identify electrolyte abnormalities caused by vomiting and diarrhea
  • Urinalysis may identify bladder infection, may give evidence of the severity of dehydration, and may identify sugar and ketones in urine (evidence of uncontrolled diabetes).
  • In some cases, the doctor may order other tests, such as a chest X-ray, a test to check for rotavirus, stool cultures, or lumbar puncture (a spinal tap).

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Dehydration in Children - Symptoms

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What were the symptoms of your child(s) dehydration?

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Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Dehydration »

Dehydration describes a state of negative fluid balance that may be caused by numerous disease entities.

Read More on Medscape Reference »


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