Dehydration
Dehydration is the loss of water from the body in excess of the amount consumed.
What is it?
Dehydration occurs when the body loses more water than is taken in. It is often accompanied by disturbances in the body's mineral salt or electrolyte balance - especially disturbances in the concentrations of sodium and potassium.+ read more
How is it caused?
Mild dehydration is common and usually caused by not drinking enough fluids throughout the day. In children, diarrhoea is a common cause.+ read more
Consequences
A loss of body water equivalent to about 1% of body weight is normally compensated within 24 hours. Thirst stimulates drinking, so intake is increased and there is also a reduction in water loss by the kidneys. If losses are greater than this, reductions in physical and cognitive performance may occur and there may be some impairment of thermoregulation and cardiovascular function.+ read more
