DEHYDRATION SYMPTOMS & TREATMENT

Recognizing and Treatment for Dehydration: 

Recognizing dehydration symptoms starts with an understanding of dehydration. Victims of dehydration do not have enough fluid (water) in their bodies to get nutrition and oxygen to the tissues of their bodies. In most cases, victims can correct dehydration by drinking water. Causes of dehydration include:

heat exhaustion

heat stroke

vomiting

diarrhea

high blood sugar

exercise

drinking alcohol

taking drugs (legal or illegal)

infection

Dehydration Symptoms

It's important to recognize dehydration symptoms early. Untreated, dehydration can develop into shock. The signs and symptoms of dehydration include:

dizziness

headache

dark urine (may have a strong odor)

inability to urinate

dry mouth and nose

weakness

nausea and vomiting

Treatment for Dehydration

Dehydration occurs when the body has lost too much fluid and electrolytes (the salts potassium and sodium). Dehydration is particularly dangerous for children, who can die from it within a matter of days. Although water is extremely important in preventing dehydration, it does not contain electrolytes. To maintain electrolyte levels, you could have broth or soups, which contain sodium, and fruit juices, soft fruits, or vegetables, which contain potassium. Sports drinks, like Gatorade, can help restore electrolytes. For children, doctors often recommend a special rehydration solution that contains the nutrients they need. You can buy this solution in the grocery store without a prescription. Examples include Pedialyte, Ceralyte, and Infalyte. Untreated, dehydration may lead to shock. If a victim of dehydration has a low blood pressure or very rapid pulse, the victim may need to get intravenous fluids. Call 911 for a dehydrated victim suffering from confusion, dizziness, or weakness.

Thanks for a timely and worthwhile message. I actually have a runnier nose since surgery..weird, huh?