Dehydration (hypohydration) - Galway Independent

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Dehydration (hypohydration)

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Wednesday, 08 August 2007

Dehydration is the removal of water (hydro in ancient Greek) from an object. Medically, dehydration refers to a condition in which the body contains insufficient amounts of water for healthy functioning. Depending on age, activity, general health and environment humans require between one to three litres a day.

Causes of dehydration vary considerable ranging from lifestyle factors to disease. Factors that lead to dehydration include: prolonged physical activity without hydration (especially in hot or humid environments), prolonged exposure to dry air such as flying in planes, blood loss or hypotension caused by physical trauma, diarrhoea, hyperthermia, shock, vomiting, burns, infectious diseases such as cholera, gastroenteritis and yellow fever, malnutrition, fasting, rapid weight loss, hyperglycemia and diabetes. A lot of people suffer from dehydration caused by consuming alcohol, caffeine or other diuretic substances.

Symptoms range in severity and can include headaches, visual snow, decreased blood pressure, dizziness or fainting, thirst, decreased urine volume, dark urine, constipation, unexplained tiredness and a dry mouth. Extreme dehydration results in delirium, unconsciousness and in serious cases death. Many athletes will suffer a loss of performance of up to 30 per cent when dehydrated. Babies will suffer a sunken fontanel if dehydrated and infants may faint and have sunken eyes. As dehydration worsens symptoms will include an increased heart rate due to decreased plasma volume and blood pressure. Body temperature may also rise due to decreased sweating. Nausea and a feeling of tingling in limbs and spastic muscles can all be caused by dehydration. A lot of the generally non-specific symptoms that people describe as being 'under the weather' or tiredness are nearly always caused by dehydration. People basically are not consuming enough water. Over long periods of time dehydration can contribute or exacerbate serious illness. It is amazing how people who increase their intake of water find almost an instant increase in energy and quality of life. People who drink water look and feel better than people suffering dehydration.

The best treatment for minor dehydration is drinking water and stopping fluid loss. Water is preferable to sport drinks and other commercially sold rehydration fluids as the balance of electrolytes they provide may not match the replacement requirements of the individual. It is advisable to stop fluid loss from vomiting and diarrhoea avoid solid foods and drink only clear liquids.

In more severe cases oral rehydration therapy or intravenous therapy at hospital may be necessary. If you suspect you may be dehydrated, avoid sweating as much as possible (especially saunas etc) and drink small amounts of fresh filtered water throughout the day, rather than one or two large glasses. Being sufficiently hydrated is essential for health and longevity. Avoid dehydration at all times by drinking water regularly.

Always consult your GP before starting any new regime or self treatment. The contents of this article are for informational purposes only and are not intended to prevent, diagnose or cure any medical conditions. Next week's topic is Insect bites. If you would like a topic covered, please contact The Clinic of Complementary and Natural Medicine, Kiltartan House, Forster St., Galway on 091- 568804.

Dr H Bhatti is the President of the Association of Naturopathic Practitioners and can be contacted at his clinics at Kiltartan House, Forster Street, Galway 091 568804 or at The Village Nursing Care Centre, Ballygarriff, Craughwell 091-777700.

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