You've probably heard that you need to drink at least two liters of water a day to stay hydrated. However, it's easy to underestimate your daily intake because our bodies have a natural mechanism for regulating water reserves: thirst. But this mechanism can sometimes be insufficient. In these cases, the risk of dehydration increases and can progress to a more serious form known as severe dehydration .
In this article, we'll explore what severe dehydration is, the signs that help identify it, and the steps to take to prevent and treat it. Happy reading!
Dehydration: definition and stages
What is dehydration?
Dehydration results from a water deficit in the body, that is, a situation in which the body loses more fluids than it absorbs.
As the body loses water, dehydration worsens and progresses through several stages, each characterized by different symptoms.
- Mild to moderate dehydration is manifested first by thirst, then by decreased perspiration, urine production, fatigue and a loss of skin elasticity.
- Severe dehydration manifests as dizziness or fainting . These new symptoms are linked to the fact that, at this stage, water from the cells passes into the bloodstream to compensate for losses and maintain sufficient circulation. This is particularly true in the brain, causing the symptoms mentioned above.
The main causes of dehydration
Dehydration is often caused by a significant and sudden decrease in the body's fluid stores without them being replenished, for example during episodes of diarrhea , vomiting or heavy sweating.
Signs and symptoms of severe dehydration
What are the signs of severe dehydration?
When dehydration worsens and becomes severe, the symptoms change. Blood pressure begins to drop, which can cause dizziness or even fainting , especially when standing. This is called orthostatic hypotension .
If dehydration worsens, it can cause shock and serious damage to internal organs. The brain is particularly sensitive to a decrease in the body's water reserves because it needs water to maintain neurons and transport hormones throughout the body. Therefore, confusion is a characteristic symptom of severe dehydration.
However, the symptoms of dehydration can vary significantly depending on the age of the person concerned.
Symptoms of dehydration in infants and children
In infants and children, symptoms of dehydration may include:
- A sunken fontanelle (the soft spot at the top of a baby's head)
- Sunken, dark circles under the eyes
- A decrease in the amount of urine, particularly with diapers that are not very wet or not wet at all.
- Tears without tears and dry skin
Symptoms in adults and the elderly
In older people , the main symptoms are thirst, a decrease in the water excreted by the body via urine and perspiration, a drop in blood pressure, apathy, confusion and malaise.
The risks and complications of severe dehydration
What are the complications of dehydration?
Without treatment, dehydration can lead to complications ranging from minor to serious, such as:
- An electrolyte imbalance , particularly a lack of sodium (hyponatremia) and a lack of potassium , hinders the proper functioning of the body's organs.
- A significant decrease in the volume of blood circulating in the body (hypovolemic shock)
- Acute kidney failure due to a decrease in the volume of circulating blood fluid
If dehydration continues to worsen, it can cause coma and death.
What disease causes dehydration?
Certain illnesses, such as diabetes, diarrhea, or gastroenteritis, which increase water excretion, can raise the risk of dehydration. Therefore, it is especially important to be well-hydrated if you are in this situation to compensate for the losses.
What to do in the face of severe dehydration?
How to react in case of severe dehydration?
In cases of severe dehydration, it is important to react quickly. First, a doctor must be consulted as soon as possible. They may administer an intravenous (IV) liquid solution containing chloride and sodium to restore electrolyte balance and promote water retention . Then, as soon as the person is able to drink, they can be given an oral rehydration solution (ORS ), which is more effective for rehydration than plain water.
How to rehydrate in case of moderate dehydration?
In cases of moderate dehydration , it is necessary to drink large quantities of electrolyte-rich water to compensate for the deficit. Consuming a hydration solution such asHydratis tablets is an excellent option, as it enriches the water with electrolytes and promotes its absorption thanks to a scientifically tested blend of sodium and glucose.
Diagnosis and prevention of severe dehydration
What tests are used to diagnose dehydration?
Dehydration is often diagnosed based on its symptoms. If the patient has other conditions that could complicate the diagnosis, a blood test may be necessary.
What are the means of preventing severe dehydration?
To prevent dehydration, the key is to drink regularly and in sufficient quantities. In particular, during periods of intense heat , after strenuous physical exercise , or in the event of an illness causing significant water loss (vomiting, diarrhea, etc.), it is important to drink more fluids than usual to compensate for the losses.
We must also be careful of others, especially the elderly, children and infants who are more vulnerable.
Severe dehydration can occur in various situations, but its symptoms often remain the same: dry skin and mouth, decreased sweating and urination, dizziness, confusion, and sometimes fainting. To avoid reaching this point, prevention is key: make sure you hydrate regularly and in sufficient quantities, whether with water or oral rehydration solutions. Protecting your health is above all about anticipating and adopting the right habits.
