Dehydration
Medical Questions » Illnesses » Dehydration
| Name: Dehydration |
| Also known as: |
| Occurs when there is inadequate water in the body, which is normally 80% water. |
Causes of Dehydration
Severe diarrhea and/or vomiting, water deprivation, burns, diabetes mellitus, diabetes insipidus, peritonitis and kidney disease. |
Symptoms of Dehydration
Thirst, dry mouth, slack skin, sunken eyes, weight loss, rapid heart rate, weakness and lethargy. |
Tests for Dehydration
Blood tests can accurately determine the degree of dehydration. |
Treatment for Dehydration
Giving a solution of water and electrolytes (vital elements) by mouth if possible, or intravenously. In an emergency, a mixture containing a level teaspoon of salt and eight level teaspoons of sugar or glucose into a liter of boiled water may be given by mouth. Plain water should not be given as it will pass straight through the body.
|
Complications of Dehydration of its treatment
Because of their lower body weight, children will dehydrate far more rapidly than adults. |
Likely Outcome of Dehydration
A decrease of 5% in water volume can cause significant disease, and a 10% loss may be fatal in children. Very good response to correct treatment. |
|
|
