Dehydration

Dehydration is excessive total-body water loss with or without electrolyte deficit. Causes: insufficient intake, GI losses (diarrhea/vomiting), fever/sweating, diabetes insipidus, diuretics. Clinical: thirst, dry mucous membranes, decreased skin turgor, oliguria, tachycardia, orthostatic hypotension; severe causes altered mental status/shock. Treatment: oral rehydration for mild-moderate; IV isotonic crystalloid for severe/hypovolemia; treat underlying cause.

Common Symptoms

Thirst; dry mouth/skin; oliguria; tachycardia; dizziness/orthostasis; confusion in severe

Causes and Pathogenesis

Net water loss exceeds intake, reducing extracellular/intravascular volume and causing hemodynamic and renal dysfunction.

Treatment

Oral rehydration solution; IV isotonic saline; treat underlying GI/fever/diuretic cause; monitor electrolytes/renal function

Preventive Measures

Adequate fluid intake; treat diarrhea/vomiting early; caution in elderly/infants.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Emergency department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.