Fever is a common symptom of many illnesses because it is an effective mechanism for the body to eliminate intruders. But is it a symptom of dehydration? And when can these two phenomena appear together? We will find out in this article!
Dehydration and fever: symptoms, causes, and solutions
Dehydration refers to a situation in which the body is deficient in water. As water is essential for many bodily organs, dehydration quickly manifests through signs such as fatigue, cramps, reduced physical and mental performance, etc.
Dehydration often occurs when there is a significant fluid loss, particularly due to increased sweating, over a short period, such as during episodes of diarrhea, vomiting, or after an intense sports session. In adults and children, this water loss can quickly become problematic if not compensated.
Infants and young children are particularly susceptible to dehydration because water is very important for them. In their case, it often occurs due to illnesses that cause diarrhea, vomiting, and fever, such as gastroenteritis, for example. It can also occur as a result of insufficient hydration in hot weather.
Fever and dehydration: a complex relationship
Does dehydration cause fever?
In cases of severe dehydration, it is possible for a slight fever to set in, but this is far from being one of the most common symptoms.
If fever and dehydration are concomitant, it is more likely that the former is the cause of the latter, as a symptom of an illness that can cause significant water loss, such as gastroenteritis, or by causing heavy losses through perspiration.
Does heat cause fever?
Heat itself does not cause fever, but it inevitably leads to an increase in body temperature. If this temperature exceeds 40°C, it can cause sunstroke or heatstroke, which are associated with fever. However, this fever is not of the same nature as fever caused by an infection, as it is generated by the environment and not by the body.
Symptoms of dehydration by age
The symptoms of dehydration can be quite different depending on the age of the affected person. Those most at risk are the elderly, children, and babies.
For healthy adults and adolescents, the most common symptoms are initially thirst, then dry lips, darker urine, and fatigue. New symptoms may be added to these in cases of severe dehydration, such as headaches, dull and sunken eyes, headaches, and dizziness.
Dehydrated babies may present with a sunken fontanelle (the soft spot on the top of their head), tearless crying, and dry diapers.
How to react to dehydration accompanied by fever?
How to prevent dehydration?
To stay optimally hydrated and prevent dehydration in hot weather, you should drink regularly and in moderate amounts. It is also important to ensure that the water consumed contains enough electrolytes to compensate for losses, as they play a very important role in the proper functioning of the body.
What to do in case of severe dehydration?
In cases of severe dehydration, a rapid response is essential. First, consult a doctor urgently. They can administer an intravenous (IV) liquid solution containing chloride and sodium to restore the 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.
What to do in case of moderate dehydration in adults and adolescents?
In cases of moderate dehydration, it is also possible to use a rehydration solution that contains glucose and sodium to optimize the absorption of water by the body.
What to do in case of dehydration in infants?
For babies, dehydration is particularly dangerous, so it is essential to be very attentive to signs that might indicate a lack of water. If you spot them, you should first contact a doctor as soon as possible and give the baby suitable water regularly.
Why use Hydratis tablets?
A practical and effective solution for hydrating or rehydrating can be to use Hydratis tablets. These are specifically designed to optimize water absorption by the body and are composed of electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium, chloride, etc.) and trace elements (zinc, manganese) as well as sugar. Indeed, sugar and sodium promote the passage of water between the intestine and the blood. They should preferably be taken between meals, with two to three tablets, up to a maximum of 5 per day.
Fever and dehydration are phenomena that can frequently combine, particularly in the context of illnesses such as gastroenteritis or after prolonged exposure to heat. To limit health risks, it is essential to adopt simple but crucial actions: maintain regular hydration throughout the day by drinking small, regular amounts, especially after episodes of vomiting or excessive sweating, for example. Remember to pay particular attention to vulnerable people such as children and the elderly and advise them to consult a doctor urgently for appropriate treatment. Proactive vigilance can make all the difference in preventing these sometimes dangerous situations.
Bibliography:
- MSD Manual Consumer Version, Dehydration, https://www.msdmanuals.com/fr/accueil/troubles-hormonaux-et-m%C3%A9taboliques/%C3%A9quilibre-hydrique/d%C3%A9shydratation
- Vidal, Dehydration and Heatstroke, https://www.vidal.fr/maladies/douleurs-fievres/coup-chaleur.html
