Dehydration happens when the body loses more fluid than it takes in and no longer has enough to work properly.
Causes
- diarrhea;
- vomiting;
- heavy sweating;
- urinating too much, which some medicines and illnesses cause;
- fever;
- not drinking enough water or other fluids.
Who is most at risk
- Older adults — some lose their sense of thirst with age and don't drink enough.
- Infants and young children, who are more likely to have diarrhea or vomiting.
- People with chronic illnesses that make them urinate or sweat more, such as diabetes, cystic fibrosis or kidney problems.
- People taking medicines that make them urinate or sweat more.
- People who exercise or work outdoors in hot weather.
Symptoms
| Adults | Infants and young children |
|---|---|
| feeling very thirsty | dry mouth and tongue |
| dry mouth | crying without tears |
| urinating and sweating less than usual | no wet diapers for 3 hours or more |
| dark urine | a high fever |
| dry skin | being unusually sleepy or drowsy |
| tiredness | irritability |
| dizziness | sunken-looking eyes |
Dehydration can be mild or life-threatening. Get medical help right away if symptoms also include confusion, fainting, not urinating, a rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing or shock.
Diagnosis
A health care provider will examine you, check your vital signs and ask about symptoms, and may order:
- blood tests of electrolytes, especially potassium and sodium — minerals with an electric charge that, among other jobs, help keep the body's fluids in balance;
- blood tests of kidney function;
- urine tests to check for dehydration and its cause.
Treatment
The goal is to replace lost fluids and electrolytes.
- Mild cases: drinking plenty of water may be enough; sports drinks can help replace electrolytes, and oral rehydration solutions for children are sold without a prescription.
- Severe cases: may need intravenous (IV) fluids with salt in a hospital.
Prevention
- Drink enough water every day — needs vary, so ask your provider how much is right for you.
- Avoid drinks with sugar and caffeine.
- Drink extra in hot weather, especially when exercising or working outdoors. Sports drinks can help if you lose a lot of minerals in sweat, but some are high in sugar, so don't overdo them.
- Drink extra when sick. If keeping liquids down is hard, try small sips of water or sucking on ice chips.
Sources
- MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine: "Dehydration."
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