Dehydration

Overview

Dehydration is when the body lose a lot of water compared to amount of intake because the body needs enough water and other fluids to function normally. The body will get dehydrated if its not replaced causing several side effects.

Signs and Symptoms

Dry mouth and tongue, No tears when crying, No wet diapers for three hours, Sunken eyes or cheeks, Sunken soft spot on top of skull, Listlessness or irritability, Extreme thirst, Less frequent urination, Dark-colored urine, Fatigue, Dizziness, Confusion

Common Causes

Diarrhea & vomiting, Fever, Excessive sweating, Increased urination, Diabetes mellitus type 1

Risk Factors

People with chronic illnesses, People who work or exercise outside

Investigation Techniques

Full blood countts, Urinalysis, Blood urea & serum electrolytes, Serum glucose level

Treatment and Prevention

Drinking plenty of fluids such as water/ diluted squash / diluted fruit juice, Replace salt by taking oral/intravenous salt solution, Treat the causating factor