WHAT IS DEHYDRATION?

When the body loses more water than the intake it leads to Dehydration. The body loses water everyday through urine, sweat, and even breathing and in the normal situation this loss is made up by water intake. Dehydration can be a cause of concern when there is excessive loss of water due to vomiting or diarrhea, excessive sweating due to workout or outdoors without adequate access to water. Not getting enough fluid can cause low blood pressure, weakness, dizziness, fatigue, and even nausea. The larger the deficit of fluid, the greater the risk is for serious complications. Dehydration can lead to such problems as kidney failure, confusion, coma, or shock.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF DEHYDRATION?  

The common symptoms of dehydration can be low blood pressure, weakness, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, high pulse, increased thirst, Sunken eyes, confusion, decreased urination, dry mouth, thick saliva or mucus, Muscle cramps or spasms and even fainting.  

 DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT?  

Diagnosis: The doctor usually can diagnose dehydration based on the signs and symptoms such as low blood pressure, little or no urination, sunken eyes, and a lack of elasticity in the skin. Additional tests, such as a blood test or urine analysis may be advised.  

Treatment: Treatment for dehydration depends on the severity and other factors such as age, other medical conditions. The primary treatment is to replace the fluids that have been lost. With mild to moderate dehydration that can be done by drinking more fluids. In severe cases, it may be necessary to give IV fluids. If dehydration is due to an illness, the treatment will be done for the condition by adjusting medications to control the symptoms and reduce the amount of fluid being lost.

Home Care: For mild cases of dehydration increased fluid intake such as water, ORS or other drinks help. Additionally, medication to control diarrhea, vomiting or fever can be taking to reduce the fluid loss due to these conditions.  

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

1. Severe dehydration can be life-threatening. Get emergency medical attention in case of fever higher than 103 degree Fahrenheit, difficulty in breathing, chest or abdominal pains, fainting or no urination for more than 12 hours

2. Consult a Doctor if symptoms such as vomitting / diarrhea for more than 24 hours, mild fever, weakness, excessive urination or no urine output for 8-10 hours, except while asleep.