HealthPrep Editor
Inadequate fluid intake and increased fluid needs can lead to dehydration. symptoms include thirst, dizziness, fatigue, and fainting. The complications of dehydration can be fatal and include kidney failure and coma. Feelings of thirst occur with slight dehydration while dark urine reveals a larger fluid deficit. Treatment should be applied as soon as symptoms are recognized.
Oral Rehydration Therapy
The first line of treatment for dehydration is to increase oral intake of fluid. Simply drinking waterwith the first sign of thirst is appropriate, but more severe dehydration will require oral rehydration therapy (ORT). ORT consists of consuming small amounts of electrolyte-containing, clear fluids, such as broth or sports drinks, on a frequent basis. Electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, are minerals that help direct fluid in the body. These are required in order for the cells to absorb and utilize the water being consumed. Severe dehydration is often caused by excess fluid loss associated with fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. Halt the excess losses by treating these issues. Over-the-counter medications, such as loperamide, can address diarrhea while acetaminophen or ibuprofen can reduce fever. Shorten the duration of the overarching illness by seeking medical treatment upon the first sign of these symptoms. Early medical treatment reduces the risk of severe dehydration.
Regulate Body Temperatur
One of the main functions of body water is to assist with body temperature regulation. High internal temperatures increase fluid needs. To address this, take other steps to bring the body temperature to the normal range. Remove excess clothing and ensure the ambient temperature is cool. This may require the use of air conditioning, shade, and fans. In dry climates, it may be necessary to mist the skin with water. Avoid exposing the skin to very cold temperatures, such as in a cold shower or with ice, since this will promote shivering which increases body temperature.
Medical treatment of severe dehydration includes intravenous (IV) rehydration in which a saline solution is injected directly into the circulation. Medical professionals determine the exact composition of the IV solution to address the electrolyte and fluid needs. A catheter tube is inserted into a vein in the arm while the saline solution is hung in a bag above the arm. The solution is absorbed at a slow rate while the composition of the blood is being monitored by the medical staff. The quantity and composition of the saline solution depends on the internal body chemistry and severity of dehydration.
Prevention
The best treatment of dehydration is prevention. Consuming adequate amounts of fluid on a regular basis and in response to circumstances of increased needs. An average, healthy adult should consume 11 to 16 cups of water every day and eat 5 or more servings of fresh fruits and vegetables, which are a great source of dietary fluid. More fluid is needed with exercise, alcohol consumption, hot climate, illness, and other situations that increase sweat, breath, and urine output. Urine color should never be darker than slightly yellow.