First Aid
Dehydration is when the body loses too much water and needed minerals (electrolytes).
Signs & Symptoms
For Severe Dehydration
* Severe thirst (sometimes).
* Sunken and dry eyes. Tearless eyes. (Infants may not show this sign.)
* Dry mouth, tongue, and lips.
* No urine or a low amount of urine that is dark yellow.
* Sunken fontanelle (the soft spot on an infant’s head).
* Headache. Feeling lightheaded, especially when getting up quickly.
* Dry skin that doesn’t spring back when pinched.
* Feeling dizzy. Confusion. Severe weakness.
* Increase in breathing and heart rate.
Causes
* The body does not get enough fluids for it’s needs.
* Too much water or other body fluids and electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, are lost. This can result from: Repeated episodes of diarrhea and/or vomiting; heavy sweating; heat exhaustion; or heat stroke.
Treatment
Fluids and electrolytes must be replaced. If this can’t be done by mouth, they are given through an IV solution.
Questions to Ask
Self-Care / First Aid
* If vomiting isn’t present, adults and children over age 12 should drink about 2 cups of fluid per hour. Fluids of choice are: Sports drinks; flat cola; clear sodas; broths; popsicles; and gelatin.
* If you have high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, or a history of stroke, you should find out what fluids your doctor prefers you take when you need to replace lost fluids.
* For children under 2 years old, consult your child’s doctor about the amount and type of fluid to give. Ask your child’s doctor about using over-the-counter products that give fluid and electrolytes. Examples are Pedialyte and Infalyte.
* For children over 2 years old, give up to 1-1/2 quarts of fluid per day.
© American Institute for Preventive Medicine