Fluid volume deficit occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in, causing an imbalance of electrolytes. It can be caused by blood loss, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive sweating, or high fever. Symptoms include thirst, dry mouth, irritability, weakness, and decreased urine output. Treatment involves drinking fluids or receiving intravenous fluids. Severe cases can cause seizures, heart failure, and hospitalization. Prevention is important for children and the elderly.
Fluid volume deficit is a condition in which fluid loss exceeds intake and electrolytes in the human body become out of balance. Cells do not have enough water to function properly when a lack of fluid volume develops due to blood loss, vomiting, or diarrhea. Excessive sweating and high fever can also lead to a deficiency due to dehydration.
Rapid blood loss is usually the most common cause of fluid volume deficit and can occur due to an accident or during surgical procedures. Operating room nurses commonly monitor blood pressure and other physical signs so that fluid can be replaced as needed to maintain proper blood circulation and oxygen content. If the deficiency becomes severe, internal organs can shut down and cease to function.
During the initial stage of dehydration, thirst and a dry mouth may be the only symptoms. Mild dehydration that results in a lack of fluid loss can usually be treated quickly by drinking water. As dehydration progresses, a person may become irritable, weak, or lightheaded. Sometimes the skin will feel dry and hot to the touch and may appear red. Decreased urine output and dark urine are other signs of mild dehydration, along with headaches.
Fluids are used to treat the condition and can be taken by mouth or given intravenously to people who cannot swallow or are unconscious. You can purchase electrolyte solutions formulated to replace the water and salt your body needs to fight dehydration. Coconut water also contains electrolytes similar to blood plasma properties and can rehydrate the body. If diarrhea or vomiting causes a lack of fluid volume, medications may be given to address those complaints.
Severe dehydration can be a serious medical condition that causes seizures and heart failure. The patient may go into shock and suffer from muscle spasms when blood pressure drops too low. Loss of skin elasticity and a weak, fast pulse are additional symptoms of a severe fluid volume deficit. A person experiencing severe dehydration is usually hospitalized and given intravenous fluids until fluid levels return to normal.
Preventing fluid volume deficit is especially important in young children and the elderly, especially adults in nursing homes. Children can become dehydrated when illnesses cause fever, vomiting, or diarrhea. Seniors living in nursing homes may suffer from dementia and forget to drink enough water to stay healthy. They may also use medications, such as diuretics, that cause increased urination.
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