Dehydration by Dyrionyema Munachiso Victoria

 DEHYDRATION

Dyrionyema Munachiso Victoria 

Dehydration does not just mean the body is losing water — it also means it's losing electrolytes, such as sodium, magnesium, and potassium, all of which one needs to breathe, move, talk, and generally stay up and running. Dehydration occurs when one loses more fluid than he/she takes in, and the body doesn't have enough water and other fluids to carry out its normal functions. 

Anyone may become dehydrated, but the condition is especially dangerous for young children and older adults. The most common cause of dehydration in young children is severe diarrhea and vomiting. Older adults naturally have a lower volume of water in their bodies, and may have conditions or take medications that increase the risk of dehydration

Mild to moderate dehydration can be reversed by drinking more fluids, but severe dehydration needs immediate medical treatment.

SYMPTOMS

Thirst isn't always a reliable early indicator of the body's need for water. Many people, particularly older adults, don't feel thirsty until they're already dehydrated. That's why it's important to increase water intake during hot weather or when you're ill.

The signs and symptoms of dehydration also may differ by age.

Infant/young child

Dry tongue and dry lips.

No tears when crying.

Fewer than six wet diapers per day (for infants), and no wet diapers or urination for eight hours (in toddlers).

Sunken soft spot on your infant’s head.

Sunken eyes.

Dry, wrinkled skin.

Deep, rapid breathing.

Cool, blotchy hands and feet.

Irritability.

Adults

Extreme thirst

Less frequent urination

Headache and confusion.

Tiredness (fatigue).

Dizziness, weakness and lightheadedness.

Dry mouth and/or a dry cough.

High heart rate but low blood pressure.

Flushed (red) skin.

Muscle cramps.

Heat intolerance or chills.

Constipation

CAUSES

Diarrhea 

Vomiting

Fever

Excessive sweating

Increased urination

Certain medications

Certain disease conditions

TREATMENT

Dehydration must be treated by replenishing the fluid level in the body. This can be done by consuming clear fluids such as water, or sports drinks. Some dehydration patients, however, will require intravenous fluids in order to rehydrate. People who are dehydrated should avoid drinks containing caffeine such as coffee, tea, and sodas.

Underlying conditions that are causing dehydration should also be treated with the appropriate medication. The best approach to dehydration treatment depends on age, the severity of dehydration and its cause.

For infants and children who have become dehydrated from diarrhea, vomiting or fever, use an oral rehydration solution. These solutions contain water and salts in specific proportions to replenish both fluids and electrolytes.

Most adults with mild to moderate dehydration from diarrhea, vomiting or fever can improve their condition by drinking more water or other liquids. 

If you work or exercise outdoors during hot or humid weather, cool water is your best bet. Sports drinks containing electrolytes and a carbohydrate solution also may be helpful.

Children and adults who are severely dehydrated should be treated by emergency.

PREPARATION OF ORS

Ingredients

Six (6) level teaspoons of Sugar

Half (1/2) level teaspoon of Salt

One Litre of clean drinking or boiled water and then cooled - 5 cupfuls (each cup about 200 ml.)

Preparation Method:

Stir the mixture till the salt and sugar dissolve.

COMPLICATIONS

If dehydration is not checked, it can lead to serious complications; these can include:

Low blood volume – less blood produces a drop in blood pressure and a reduction in the amount of oxygen reaching tissues; this can be life threatening.

Seizures – due to an imbalance of electrolytes.

Kidney problems – including kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and eventually kidney failure.

Heat injury – ranging from mild cramps to heat exhaustion or even heat stroke.

PREVENTION

To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of fluids and eat foods high in water such as fruits and vegetables. Letting thirst be your guide is an adequate daily guideline for most healthy people.

People may need to take in more fluids if they are experiencing conditions such as:

Vomiting or diarrhea. If your child is vomiting or has diarrhea, start giving extra water or an oral rehydration solution at the first signs of illness. Don't wait until dehydration occurs.

Strenuous exercise. In general, it's best to start hydrating the day before strenuous exercise. Producing lots of clear, dilute urine is a good indication that you're well-hydrated. During the activity, replenish fluids at regular intervals and continue drinking water or other fluids after you're finished.

Hot or cold weather. You need to drink additional water in hot or humid weather to help lower your body temperature and to replace what you lose through sweating. You may also need extra water in cold weather to combat moisture loss from dry air, particularly at higher altitudes

Illness. Older adults most commonly become dehydrated during minor illnesses — such as influenza, bronchitis or bladder infections. Make sure to drink extra fluids when you're not feeling well.