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Outer Banks Running Club
- Support
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 FACT:
What is dehydration?
Our bodies require a certain amount of fluid intake on a daily
basis to function; the minimum is about equal to four 8 ounce
glasses (one liter or one quart). Requirements vary with
activity and age, but most active persons need two to three
times this basic amount. Basic fluid intake serves to replace
the fluids which are required to perform our normal bodily
functions. If we take in less or lose more fluid than is needed,
the end result is dehydration. |
What are electrolytes?
Electrolytes are substances that
become ions in solution and acquire the capacity to conduct
electricity. The balance of the electrolytes in our bodies is
essential for normal function of our cells and our organs.
Common electrolytes that are measured by doctors with blood
testing include sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate.
The functions and normal range values for these electrolytes are
described below.
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 What
is the treatment for dehydration? And what are ways of
preventing dehydration?
The best way to treat dehydration is to prevent it from
occurring. If you suspect excessive fluid loss during and illness, your physician should be notified. Intravenous or oral
fluid replacement may be needed, depending on severity of fluid
loss. In the 1960's the World Health Organization (WHO)
developed an oral solution containing sugar, which improved the
absorption of salt/water preparations, saving the lives of many
dehydrated persons in remote areas. This solution can be
prepared at home by mixing the following:
Table Salt - 3/4 teaspoon
Baking Powder - 1 teaspoon
Sugar -4 tablespoons
Orange juice - 1 cup
Water - 1 quart/liter
This beverage can be taken in small, frequent sips, and is often
tolerated in the face of nausea and vomiting. Several commercial
preparations are available, but since their composition varies,
your physician should be contacted to decide which replacement
solution (if any) is best. Changes in the type or amount of
fluid replacement may be needed as symptoms improve. Care must
be taken to avoid using these solutions improperly.
Food intake should be continued if at all possible, except for
high fiber fruits and vegetables. There is controversy regarding
ingesting milk products since the ability to absorb milk sugar
(lactose) may be reduced. The prior policy of "bowel rest" seems
to do more harm than good except in certain circumstances.
www.MedicineNet.com
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Copyright © 2007 Outer Banks Running Club
08/31/2010
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