Details Descriptions About :: dehydration

Dehydration causes symptoms treatment 

Description of Dehydration

Definition of DehydrationAccording to dictionary definition  Dehydration is defined as the loss of body fluid or removal of water from the body leading to a deficiency of fluid or electrolytes within an organism.
Types of Dehydration

Dehydration is classified under three categories depending on:1. Deficiency of electrolytes (especially sodium)2. Loss of water3. Loss of both water and electrolytes in equal ratio  Signs and Symptoms of DehydrationAccording to dictionary definition  Dehydration can have grave consequences if neglected as it may cause death in severe cases. Some of the symptoms include:1. Mild headache2. Blurred vision3. Lethargy and extreme sleepiness4. Decreased blood pressure5. Dizziness or fainting6. Thirst and dry mouth7. Discomfort and fatigue8. Dry skin9. Decrease in urine volume, the urine passed is usually dark in color10. Delirium11. Swelling of the tongue12. Insomnia13. It may also impact one €™s mood negatively and lead to a state of confusion.  Causes and Risk Factors of DehydrationAccording to dictionary definition  In humans, dehydration can be caused by a wide range of diseases and can be broadly divided into the following:  External or stress-related causes:1. Prolonged physical activity with sweating without consuming adequate water, especially in a hot and/or dry environment2. Prolonged exposure to dry air, e.g., in high-flying airplanes (5% to 12% relative humidity)3. Blood loss or hypotension due to physical trauma4. Diarrhea5. Vomiting6. Burns7. Excessive use of caffeine and other stimulants8. Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages  Some infectious diseases may also cause dehydration such as:1. Cholera2. Gastroenteritis3. Shigellosis4. Yellow fever  Inadequate diet and nutrition intake can lead to electrolyte disturbance causing a state of dehydration. Conditions like fasting, recent rapid weight loss, inability to swallow and other causes of obligate water loss may result in dehydration.  Also, there can be water loss in case one is suffering from severe hyperglycemia, especially in diabetes mellitus, glycosuria, diabetes insipidus, and others including food borne diseases.  InvestigationsAccording to dictionary definition  Diagnosis is usually done on the basis of symptoms.  Complications and When Should You See a DoctorAccording to dictionary definition  In severe cases, dehydration may lead to death. Once the condition is severe, drinking or intake of water or electrolyte may infuse vomiting, leading to further fluid loss. Therefore, one has to be cautious while diagnosing and treating for dehydration.  Treatment and Prevention of DehydrationAccording to dictionary definition  Here are some preventive and treatment measures for dehydration:1. In emergency, doctors replenish the water loss through drips — electrolytes2. Drink plenty of water3. Drink fluids and eat fresh fruits4. Avoid caffeine intake or reduce it to minimum5. Balance salt intake6. Take energy drink after prolonged stay under the sun