Dehydration Treatment in Boerne, TX
Dehydration can happen any time you are expelling more fluids than you are taking in. When there is not enough water in your system, it can begin to hinder your natural bodily functions. This could lead to a number of heat-related illnesses. When it happens to young children or older adults, dehydration could even be fatal.
If you believe that you or your child may be suffering from dehydration, please call (210) 361-0581 or contact David A. Ramos, M.D. online.
The Causes and Symptoms of Dehydration
Something as simple as excessive exercise could lead to dehydration, depending on the amount fluid intake compared to the amount of fluid lost through perspiration. The same can be said for working outdoors during hot weather or at high altitudes.
When you're ill and suffering from a fever, diarrhea, or vomiting, the body rapidly loses fluids. This is another known cause of dehydration. In the case of young children, older adults, or those suffering from chronic conditions like Diabetes or kidney disease, dehydration can happen even quicker.
That is why it is important to be able to identify the signs of severe dehydration:
- Extreme thirst
- Extreme irritability and disorientation
- Extremely dry mouth
- Unable to sweat
- Unable to urinate
- Sunken eyes
- Skin doesn't bounce back when pinched
- Sunken soft spots (on a baby)
- Low blood pressure
- Rapid heartbeat
- Rapid breathing
- No tears
- Fever
- Delirium
If you're noticing any of these signs of dehydration, get help immediately
Dehydration Diagnosis
The first thing your doctor will do if it is suspected that you are dehydrated is to check your alertness. One of the first signs of dehydration can be dizziness or disorientation. The next step is to check your blood pressure, pulse, and temperature. Sometimes when dehydrated, your skin loses all elasticity and will not bounce back when pinched.
Your doctor may also order a blood test or urinalysis to determine the severity of your dehydration.
Risks of Dehydration
Not having enough water in your system for an extended period of time can have severe consequences. Some of the complications that can result from dehydration include:
- Heat exhaustion or heatstroke
- Brain swelling
- Seizures
- Low blood volume shock (hypovolemic shock)
- Kidney failure
- Coma or death
Dehydration Treatment
The best way to treat dehydration is to prevent it entirely. If you are ill, exercising, or staying outdoors in extreme heat, it is important to remain hydrated. Moderate dehydration can be countered by drinking water or sports drinks. Severe dehydration requires medical attention.
If you believe that you or your child may be suffering from dehydration, please call (210) 361-0581 or contact David A. Ramos, M.D. online.
R Family Medical Group
Address
3110 Nogalitos StSuite 105
San Antonio, TX 78225
(210) 361-0581
www.rfamilymedicalgroup.com
Hours
Mon:
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tue:
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wed:
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thu:
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Fri:
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sat:
8:30 am - 1:00 pm