Published: 18 Jun 2025

ICD9: 276.51      ICD10: E86.0      ICD11: 5C70.0

Dehydration, also known as volume depletion, is a condition that occurs when your body loses more fluids than it takes in.
This imbalance disrupts normal bodily functions and can range from mild to life-threatening. It's not just about losing water; it's also about losing electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and chloride, which are crucial for various bodily processes.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

What happens: When you're dehydrated, your body doesn't have enough fluids to carry out its normal functions. This includes:
Regulating body temperature
Maintaining blood pressure
Transporting nutrients and oxygen to cells
Removing waste products

Causes:
Inadequate fluid intake: Not drinking enough fluids, especially during hot weather or exercise.
Excessive sweating: Intense physical activity, hot weather, or fever can lead to significant fluid loss through sweat.
Vomiting and diarrhea: These conditions can cause rapid fluid and electrolyte loss.
Increased urination: Certain medications (diuretics), conditions like diabetes, and excessive alcohol consumption can increase urination and fluid loss.
Burns: Burns damage the skin, leading to fluid loss.

Symptoms: Symptoms vary depending on the severity of dehydration.
Mild to Moderate:
Thirst
Dry mouth and throat
Dark yellow urine (reduced urine output)
Headache
Muscle cramps
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Fatigue
Severe:
Extreme thirst
Very dry mouth and skin
Little or no urination
Sunken eyes
Rapid heartbeat
Low blood pressure
Confusion or irritability
Lack of sweating
In severe cases, can lead to seizures, coma, and organ failure.

Who is at risk?
Infants and children: They have a higher body water content and are more susceptible to fluid loss. They also may not be able to communicate their thirst effectively.
Older adults: They may have a decreased sense of thirst and may have underlying conditions or take medications that increase fluid loss.
Athletes: They lose fluids through sweat during exercise.
People with chronic illnesses: Conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, and cystic fibrosis can increase the risk of dehydration.
People living in hot climates: High temperatures can increase sweating and fluid loss.

Diagnosis:
Physical exam (checking for signs like dry mouth, skin turgor)
Blood tests (to check electrolyte levels, kidney function)
Urine tests (to assess hydration status)

Treatment:
Mild to Moderate: Drinking fluids, such as water, sports drinks (with electrolytes), or oral rehydration solutions.
Severe: Intravenous (IV) fluids to rapidly replenish fluid and electrolyte levels. Medical monitoring is usually required.

Prevention:
Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, especially during hot weather or when exercising.
Eat fruits and vegetables with high water content.
Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption, as they can have a diuretic effect.
Be aware of the signs and symptoms of dehydration and seek medical attention if necessary.
Pay attention to the fluid needs of infants, children, and older adults.

Important Note: Dehydration can be a serious condition, especially in vulnerable populations. If you suspect you or someone you know is dehydrated, it's essential to seek medical advice promptly.