DEHYDRATION |
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General Information
DEFINITION--Loss of water and essential body salts due to excessive sweating during exercise, particularly in hot, humid weather.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Dry mouth.
Decreased or absent urination.
Sunken eyes.
Wrinkled skin.
Confusion.
Low blood pressure.
Coma.
CAUSES & RISK FACTORS
Heavy sweating.
Persistent vomiting or diarrhea from any cause.
Use of drugs that deplete fluids and electrolytes, such as diuretics ("water pills").
Overexposure to sun or heat.
Age over 60.
Recent illness with high fever.
Chronic kidney disease.
HOW TO PREVENT
Drink water frequently in small quantities during exercise that causes excessive sweating.
If you are vomiting or have diarrhea, take small amounts of liquid with non-prescription electrolyte supplements--or drinks such as Gatorade--every 30 to 60 minutes.
If you use diuretics, weigh daily. Report to your doctor a weight loss of more than 3 pounds in 1 day or 5 pounds in 1 week.
Weigh in before and after practice sessions. Skip workouts if a weight loss of 2% or more has not been regained.
WHAT TO EXPECT
DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES
Your own observation of symptoms.
Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
Laboratory blood studies, including blood counts and electrolyte measurement (See Glossary).
SURGERYNot necessary nor useful for this disorder.
NORMAL COURSE OF ILLNESSCurable with control of the underlying cause and replacement of necessary fluids.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONSBlood pressure drop, shock and death from prolonged, severe dehydration.
HOW TO TREAT
NOTE -- Follow your doctor's instructions. These instructions are supplemental.
MEDICAL TREATMENTHospitalization for intravenous fluids (severe or prolonged illness only).
HOME TREATMENT
Weigh at the same time each day on an accurate home scale and record the weight so you can be aware of fluid loss.
If you have vomiting or diarrhea, keep a record of the number of episodes so you can estimate your fluid loss.
For minor dehydration, take frequent small amounts of clear liquids. Large amounts may trigger vomiting.
MEDICATIONYour doctor may prescribe intravenous fluids to replace lost water.
ACTIVITYRest in bed until you recover. You may read or watch TV.
DIETDepends on the underlying disorder. Salty foods decrease the effect of dehydration.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF
You have symptoms of dehydration.
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