Posted: 31st July, 2025
Breastfeeding during hot weather, how to avoid dehydration
Dehydration means your body loses more fluids than you take in. If it's not treated, it can get worse and become a serious problem.
Things you can do to treat dehydration
You should drink fluids if you have symptoms of dehydration. If you feel sick or have been sick, you may find it hard to drink, so start with small sips and then gradually drink more.
Dehydration
Babies, children and older adults are more at risk of dehydration.
Symptoms of dehydration in adults and children include:
- feeling thirsty
- dark yellow, strong-smelling pee
- peeing less often than usual
- feeling dizzy or lightheaded
- feeling tired
- a dry mouth, lips and tongue
- sunken eyes
Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if you are feeling unwell or your baby has symptoms of dehydration.
- you’re feeling unusually tired (or your child seems drowsy)
- you’re confused and disorientated
- you feel dizzy when you stand up and it does not go away
- you have dark yellow pee or you’re peeing less than normal (or your baby has fewer wet nappies)
- you or your child are breathing quickly or has a fast heart rate
- your baby or child has few or no tears when they cry
- your baby has a soft spot on their head that sinks inwards (sunken fontanelle)
These can be signs of serious dehydration that need urgent treatment.
You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.
The LMNS Website Resources & Support
The WHS website
is an invaluable online resource that brings together comprehensive information on maternity and neonatal care across the region.
From planning a pregnancy to navigating labour and birth, and even what to expect postnatal, it’s all here. Discover insights from healthcare professionals and explore beneficial programs like the Wellbeing and Exercise in Pregnancy Programme (WEPP). Your trusted guide for a healthy journey into parenthood.
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When you click on it, the accessibility bar will open, and a range of accessibility options will be available to you.
Wellbeing and Exercise in Pregnancy Programme (WEPP)
Expecting a baby and keen to stay active and informed?
Dive into the dedicated WEPP section of the LMNS website! This fantastic, free online programme offers a wealth of exercise resources tailored for pregnancy. Beyond physical activity, WEPP provides vital information to support your overall well-being during this special time. It’s designed to help you feel your best, ensuring a healthier, more confident pregnancy journey right here in Sussex. Explore WEPP today for expert guidance at your fingertips.
Maternity Resource Library
The maternity resources library offers easy-read maternity information covering –
- How to tell us you are pregnant
- First tests and scans
- How to get help
- Regular checks
- Your choices in pregnancy
All information is available in both video and printable PDF formats, as well as translation into 11 languages.
Neonatal Support and Resources
Having a baby in neonatal care can be worrying, but the staff looking after your baby should make sure you receive all the information, communication and support you need.
The neonatal section of the website offers virtual tours of neonatal and special care baby units in Sussex, as well as family support with links to organisations that provide help and advice.