“Causes of Dehydration”
Dehydration and its Significance. Water is the basis of life. Water is necessary to all cells, tissues and organs in the human body to perform well. Water helps to control the body temperature, provides nutrients to the cells, excrete waste products and keeps the body systems in balance. The condition is known as dehydration when the body loses more fluid than it receives. Such little loss of water will interrupt the normal body functions and make you feel weary, lightheaded, or weak. People underestimate the prevalence of dehydration. It may occur at any age, within any kind of climate and due to various causes. Children, elderly and outdoor workers and exercisers are particularly vulnerable. Mild cases will lead to thirst and laziness but with no treatment, the dehydration will end up with grave disorders such as kidney failure, heat exhaustion, seizures, or death. In our bodies we lose water continuously, when we sweat, urinate, breathe in and when we digest. Staying hydrated, therefore, does not mean that you are drinking when you are thirsty but that you should have a regular balance of fluids throughout the day. It discusses the principal causes of dehydration as well as its symptoms, and measures aimed at preventing dehydration to enable you learn how to maintain a hydrated and healthy body. 2. Etiology and predisposing Factors of Dehydration. Dehydration is the situation where the fluid outflow of body exceeds the inflow. The most notable causes and risk factors predisposing a person to dehydration are the following: a. Insufficient Water Intake The majorities are unaware of the fact that their body needs water in some quantities on a daily basis. Frequent causes of inadequate fluid intake are busy lifestyles and lack access to clean water or even forgetting to drink. Others also omit consumption of water to reduce the number of bathroom visits which is very unsafe in the long term. b. Excessive Sweating The body also normally releases heat by sweating, however excessive sweating, especially during exercise, sporting or during hot weather, leads to the rapid loss of water and electrolytes. Without the replacement of these fluids that are lost, there is quick dehydration.
“Diseases and Weather Causes”
The athletes, outdoor workers and people living in the tropics are at risk. There are some diseases that result in loss of water. The significant causes of dehydration include diarrhea, vomiting, and fever, especially in children. Fluids as well as vital electrolytes like sodium and potassium are lost in the body in these diseases. Excess urination and water loss are also caused by other medical conditions like diabetes, kidney disease and endocrine disorders. d. Medications and Diuretics Some drugs, especially diuretics (the drugs used to treat high blood pressure or heart disease), increase the rate of urine flow and may result in dehydration when the amount of fluid intake is not maintained appropriately. e. Environmental Conditions Hot, humid weather makes one sweat more whereas cold and dry weather.
“Symptoms of Dehydration”
Another factor that promotes the process of dehydration is altitude as it leads to profound breathing and low humidity. f. Lifestyle Factors Alcohol and caffeine are also weak diuretics, i.e. they make the body lose fluid at a faster rate. Those taking several cups of coffee, tea, or even alcohol without taking the same volume of water would run the risk of dehydration. Who Is Most at Risk? Old people: As one grows older, the natural thirst sensation decreases and diseases reduce the ability of the body to retain water. Physical exertors and sportsmen: They lose too much water and salts through sweats. Patients who have chronic illness: Diabetes, heart disorder and kidney disorder may worsen dehydration. 3. Symptoms of Dehydration – Health Effects of Dehydration. The effects of dehydration depend on the quantity of water that your body loses. Dry mouth and throat Thirst Decreased urine output Dark yellow or pungent urine Fatigue or lack of energy Headaches and dizziness Muscle cramps or stiffness Chapped lips and dry and flaky skin Little or no urine output Tachycardia and respiratory rate. Blinking eyes and withered skin. Disorientation, aggravation or dizziness. Extrapyramidal and reduced blood pressure. Cold, wet hands and feet And in the worst scenario, unconsciousnessWhen dehydration is prolonged at a low level, it is harmful to most body systems and organs even with a lengthy period of time.
“Effects and Prevention of Dehydration”
Kidneys: The condition of dehydration undermines the capability of the kidneys to screen the waste material leading to kidney stones and urinary tract infections. Digestive System: Slows down the digestion process, also results in constipation, and may result in acid reflux. Skin and Hair: The skin is dehydrated, becoming less supple and the hair becomes flat and split It would also increase irritability and give way to mood swings. Red Flags that need medical assistance. Seek medical assistance immediately in the case of dehydration that is characterized by repeated vomiting, over two days diarrhea, confusion, high fever or heatstroke symptoms (red, hot skin and rapid pulse4. Prevention and Treatment of Dehydration. It is not difficult to prevent dehydration when it has become a habit to hydrate daily. The following are tips that are realistic to ensure that you are healthy and hydrated.
