Final answer:
Infants are more susceptible to fluid and electrolyte imbalances due to immature kidneys, a higher body surface area to volume ratio, limited reserves of electrolytes and water, and underdeveloped immune systems. These factors make dehydration more rapid and significant in infants compared to adults.
Step-by-step explanation:
Infants are more vulnerable to fluid and electrolyte imbalances than adults due to several physiological factors. During fetal development, the kidneys filter blood and produce urine. However, after birth, the neonatal kidneys remain immature and are not efficient at concentrating urine which leads to the production of very dilute urine. This condition places an emphasis on newborns to receive adequate fluids from sources such as breast milk or formula to maintain homeostasis.
Additionally, newborns have to adjust almost immediately to the environment outside the womb, a process that can be monitored using an Apgar Score. Moreover, infants have a higher body surface area to volume ratio compared to adults, which makes it challenging for them to sustain and regulate body heat. They also have underdeveloped muscular and nervous systems that limit their ability to respond to temperature changes. This adds to the risks associated with fluid losses and temperature regulation. Furthermore, newborns have limited reserves of electrolytes and water, making any loss more significant and resulting in more rapid dehydration.
In cases of illness, such as gastroenteritis, infants can suffer accelerated water losses through diarrhea and vomiting. The kidneys and underdeveloped immune system also contribute to the increased risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Oral electrolyte solutions can be essential in managing and preventing dehydration in infants, which is especially crucial for maintaining health and wellbeing during illness.