Dehydration (cont.)
How is dehydration treated?
As is often the case in medicine, prevention is the important first step in
the treatment of dehydration. (Please see the home treatment and prevention
sections.)
Fluid replacement is the treatment for dehydration. This may be attempted by
replacing fluid by mouth, but if this fails, intravenous fluid (IV) may be
required. Should oral rehydration be attempted, frequent small amounts of clear fluids
should be used.
Clear fluids include:
- water,
- clear broths,
- popsicles,
- Jell-O, and
- other replacement fluids that may contain electrolytes (Pedialyte, Gatorade,
Powerade, etc.)
Decisions about the use of intravenous fluids depend upon the healthcare
provider's assessment of the extent of dehydration and the ability for the
patient to recover from the underlying cause.
The success of the rehydration therapy can be monitored by urine output. When
the body is dry, the kidneys try to hold on to as much fluid as possible, urine
output is decreased, and the urine itself is concentrated. As treatment occurs,
the kidneys sense the increased fluid and urine output increases.
Medications may be used to treat underlying illnesses and to control fever,
vomiting, or diarrhea.
Can I treat dehydration at home?
Dehydration occurs over time. If it can be recognized in its earliest stages,
and if its cause can be addressed, then home treatment may be adequate.
Steps a person can take at home to prevent severe dehydration include:
- Individuals with vomiting and
diarrhea can try to alter
their diet and
use medications to control symptoms to minimize water loss.
- Acetaminophen or
ibuprofen may be used to control
fever.
- Fluid replacements may be attempted
by replacing fluid by mouth with frequent small amounts of clear fluids (see
clear fluids information in previous section).
If the patient becomes confused or lethargic; if there is persistent,
uncontrolled fever, vomiting, or diarrhea; or if there are any other specific
concerns, then medical care should be accessed.
Emergency medical system (EMS) or 911 should be activated for any individual with altered mental status -
confusion, lethargy, or coma.
Next: What are the complications of dehydration? »
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