Dehydration
From Trail-Finder -- Dedicated to getting you outside
Contents |
Overview
Dehydration is a serious, sometimes deadly, medical condition caused by lack of water.
Symptoms
- Thirst
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Lightheadedness
- Dizziness
- Loss of coordination
Prevention
Consuming sufficient water is the only way to prevent dehydration. A small amount of salt needs to be consumed, as well, in order for your body to process the water.
It used to be believed that only pure, liquid water was useful. Recently, however, most have agreed that water, whether in pure, liquid form, or in food or other beverages, is acceptable. Whether you drink a liter of water, a liter of sports drink, or eat a bowl of fruits and vegetables, you get the same water benefit.
Treatment
In a medical environment, treatment for dehydration is by intravenous liquids. In backcountry, however, that's rarely an option. Treatment involves making the patient comfortable and giving small but frequent drinks. Avoid giving the patient too much water too quickly, as it will likely result in vomiting. Also, small amounts of sports drinks can be useful, but they are generally too salty, so either mix with several parts of plain water, or alternate with several drinks of water.
Precautions
Saltwater, although it contains mostly water, can not be used to prevent dehydration. In fact, it increases the risk. Salt water can only be made drinkable by means of distillation. In backcountry, a solar still can be used, if necessary.
Surface water, even from springs, should always be considered unsafe for drinking without some form of water purification.
