Description Occurs when the bod...
Description
Occurs when the body is deprived of its normal supply of water or excessive water is lost. There is a delicate balance in the body between water and dissolved substances. This condition is most life-threatening in newborns, infants and persons over 60. Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids then it takes in. The loss of fluid can come from vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, or urination. Severe dehydration can lead to renal failure, and cardiovascular collapse.
Symptoms
Headache, dry or sticky mouth, low or no urine output, dark yellow urine, not producing tears, sunken eyes, confusion, low blood pressure, dizziness, lethargy, coma.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests will be done to measure kidney function and the severity of the dehydration. Tests to determine the cause of the dehydration will also be performed and may include: blood cultures, urine testing for electrolytes and infection, toxicology screen, X-rays, or CT scans.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Electrocardiogram (EKG), Urinalysis (UA), X-ray
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests will be done to measure kidney function and the severity of the dehydration. Tests to determine the cause of the dehydration will also be performed and may include: blood cultures, urine testing for electrolytes and infection, toxicology screen, X-rays, or CT scans.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Electrocardiogram (EKG), Urinalysis (UA), X-ray
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice
Treatment
Depends on the cause and severity of the dehydration. If not severe, oral rehydration will be performed. More serious cases will require intravenous fluids. The cause of the dehydration will be addressed as well.