Dehydration, possible causes and symptoms

When one speaks of dehydration, one is dealing with a state in which the body loses more fluid than it takes in. In fact, the body continuously loses fluids through a series of physiological activities ranging from sweating to urination, from faeces to breathing. Not to mention other episodes (such as vomiting and diarrhoea) that can cause further fluid losses. Losses that must obviously be supplemented. In addition to these physiological conditions, dehydration can also be caused by pathologies and generally manifests itself through specific symptoms. Let's see which ones. (Source: humanitas.it)

The causes of dehydration can be various. These include excessive sweating, burns, kidney failure, use of diuretics, vomiting and diarrhoea.

Certain diseases can also contribute to the manifestation of dehydration. Diabetes mellitus, diabetes insipidus and Addison's disease, by causing increased urination, can promote dehydration.

The elderly and children may be particularly affected by dehydration. The elderly because their thirst centre may no longer function properly, thus preventing them from feeling thirsty and drinking. Children because they may lose more fluid during episodes of vomiting and diarrhoea than adults. In all cases of dehydration, in addition to consulting a doctor, it is advisable to replenish fluids by drinking water and supplementing lost minerals (sodium and potassium in particular).

In the case of mild to moderate dehydration, symptoms that may be experienced are: decreased sweating, decreased urination, feeling thirsty, dry mouth, reduced elasticity of the skin. When dehydration worsens and becomes severe, symptoms such as: drop in blood pressure, feeling dizzy, fainting, feeling confused, severe damage to internal organs.