Dehydration symptoms and treatment
Overview
Dehydration occurs when your body loses more water than it takes in, leading to a shortage of fluids needed for normal functions. If lost fluids aren’t replaced, dehydration can occur, which may range from mild to severe.
Dehydration can affect anyone; however, it’s more risky for young children and older adults. For children, it’s often due to severe diarrhea or vomiting. On the other hand, older adults are at higher risk because they have less water in their bodies and may take medicines or have health problems that increase fluid loss.
Even minor illnesses, such as a bladder infection or a cold, can lead to dehydration in seniors. People of all ages may become dehydrated if they don’t drink enough during hot weather, especially if they’re active. While mild dehydration can often be treated by drinking fluids, severe dehydration requires prompt medical attention.
Symptoms of Dehydration
Thirst is not always a good indicator of dehydration, especially in older adults who may not feel thirsty until they’re already dehydrated. Therefore, it’s important to drink enough water, particularly during hot weather or if you’re feeling unwell.
Signs and Symptoms by Age
Infants and Young Children
- Dry mouth and tongue
- No tears when crying
- No wet diapers for over three hours
- Sunken eyes and cheeks
- Sunken soft spot on the skull
- Being unusually tired or cranky
Adults
- Extreme thirst
- Less frequent urination
- Dark-colored urine
- Feeling tired and dizzy
- Confusion
When to See a Doctor
If symptoms of dehydration continue or worsen, it is crucial to see a doctor. For example, seek help if you or someone else:
- Has had diarrhea for more than 24 hours
- Feels confused, cranky, or very sleepy
- Can’t keep down fluids
- Has bloody or black stools
Causes of Dehydration
Dehydration may happen for several reasons, including:
- Diarrhea and vomiting: Severe diarrhea, especially if sudden, can lead to large fluid and salt loss. If vomiting is also present, dehydration can worsen quickly.
- Fever: Higher fevers cause greater fluid loss, especially if diarrhea or vomiting is also present.
- Excessive sweating: Heavy sweating during activity, particularly in hot weather, can lead to dehydration.
- Frequent urination: Conditions like diabetes or certain medications can increase urination, raising dehydration risk.
Who is at Risk?
While dehydration can affect anyone, some groups are more likely to experience it:
- Infants and Children: They are more likely to have diarrhea and vomiting, which can lead to fluid loss. Additionally, their bodies lose water faster from fever or burns.
- Older Adults: They have smaller water reserves, reduced ability to conserve water, and may not feel thirst as strongly.
- People with Health Issues: For instance, diabetes, kidney problems, or medications that increase urination raise dehydration risk.
- Outdoor Workers or Athletes: People active in hot weather lose fluids faster and may need extra hydration.
Complications of Dehydration
If untreated, dehydration can lead to serious issues. For example, it can cause:
- Heat Injuries: These range from mild heat cramps to heatstroke, which can be life-threatening.
- Kidney Issues: Prolonged dehydration may lead to urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or even kidney failure.
- Seizures: Low electrolyte levels may cause muscle spasms or fainting.
- Low Blood Volume Shock: This severe condition can lower blood pressure and reduce blood flow.
Prevention Tips
To prevent dehydration, drink fluids regularly and eat water-rich foods, like fruits and vegetables. In addition, you may need extra fluids if you:
- Have diarrhea or vomiting: Start giving extra water or oral rehydration solutions to children at the first sign of illness.
- Do intense activities: It’s best to hydrate the day before, and then keep drinking during and after activity.
- Are in hot or cold weather: Hot or dry weather can cause water loss, so drinking extra fluids is helpful.
- Feel unwell: During minor illnesses, particularly in older adults, drinking extra fluids is beneficial.
Diagnosis
Doctors may diagnose dehydration based on physical signs, such as low blood pressure, fast heart rate, and reduced blood flow to hands and feet. In some cases, they may order tests like:
- Blood Tests: To measure electrolyte levels and check kidney function.
- Urine Tests: To check for concentration and signs of infection.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on age, severity, and the cause of dehydration. For instance:
- For Children: Use oral rehydration solutions. Start with small sips and gradually increase intake. For very young children, using a syringe may help.
- For Adults: Drink water, diluted sports drinks, or diluted fruit juice. Avoid full-strength juices, which may worsen diarrhea.
- For Severe Cases: In severe dehydration, hospital treatment with IV fluids may be needed.
Preparing for a Doctor’s Appointment
If dehydration symptoms appear, it is wise to consult your doctor. Before the visit, you can:
- Note symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated.
- Record recent activities, trips, or foods that might relate to dehydration causes.
- Prepare medical history, including current medications and supplements.
During the visit, you might ask questions such as:
- What’s causing these symptoms?
- What treatments are best?
- How can I prevent dehydration in the future?
Doctor’s Questions
Your doctor may ask:
- When did the symptoms start?
- Are you able to eat or drink?
- How recent was your last urination? Is it painful?
- Do you have other symptoms like fever, cramps, or headache?
Preparing with these details can help the doctor find the cause and suggest proper treatment.
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