Hydration

Dehydration occurs when there isn’t enough water in the body. It occurs when the amount of water lost by the body is greater than the amount of fluid consumed during the day.

More scientifically, fluids move from the intracellular compartment to the circulating compartment to maintain blood volume and blood pressure at the required levels. In the event of dehydration, body tissues begin to dry out, cells curl up and malfunction.

Dehydration can be caused by profuse sweating in hot weather, or by intense physical exercise. It can also occur as a result of vomiting or diarrhea. Finally, it can also occur when people are unable to drink enough water, such as during prolonged sporting activity or long journeys.

To treat mild dehydration, drinking larger quantities of water may be sufficient. For more severe dehydration, it is necessary to drink a re-hydrating solution containing the right concentration of minerals (electrolytes) and sugar. When dehydration is severe, or when you don’t want to wait for natural hydration through oral intake to make up the deficit, an intravenous infusion to rehydrate is an effective and rapid solution.

In the case of mild dehydration, thirst is felt and the mouth is dry. In the case of severe dehydration, people feel dizzy, confused and lightheaded when they stand up.

Mild to moderate dehydration can be resolved in less than a day if the person receives the appropriate amount of fluid orally. With an intravenous infusion, it resolves immediately.

Preventing dehydration is preferable to treating it. Ideal daily fluid intake varies from person to person, depending on gender, age, activity level and whether or not a person has a medical condition. In principle, adults should drink at least 1.5 L, which corresponds to around 6 glasses of fluid a day (including fluids from water-rich foods such as fruit and vegetables). You should drink more on hot days or during/after prolonged exertion, and, if possible, when vomiting and/or having diarrhoea.