Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance
Dehydration occurs when too much water is lost from the body. It is common with vomiting and/or diarrhea, hot weather/sweating, and fever. Signs of dehydration include dry mucus membranes (lack of tears, "sticky" mouth), decreased urination, dark-colored urine, and dizziness - especially when standing up quickly.
Electrolyte imbalance is a disturbance of the balance of salts in your body/bloodstream. It usually results from vomiting and/or diarrhea and often occurs along with the dehydration.
Both can be life-threatening and if untreated, can lead to seizures, coma, and eventually death. Thus, it is CRUCIAL for all with MC to pay attention to hydration.
Treatment consists of replacing BOTH water and electrolytes. Water alone is not recommended. Here are some treatment suggestions for replacing both water and necessary salts:
!. Gatorade or other sports drinks. Keep in mind that the large amount of sugar in these drinks may make diarrhea worse in some.
2. Pedialyte, a commercial oral rehydration solution which also contains sugar, can be found in the grocery store near the baby formula.
3. Balanced Electrolyte Concentrate, which does not contain sugar, is sold by the Allergy Research Group, and can be ordered over the internet. Two capsful of concentrate are added to 8 oz. of water. (Suggestion submitted by member starfire/Shirley).
3. You can make an inexpensive homemade rehydration drink. Measure all ingredients precisely. Small variations can make the drink less effective or even harmful. Mix together:
1 quart (950 ml) water
½ teaspoon (2.5 g) baking soda
½ teaspoon (2.5 g) table salt
3 to 4 tablespoons (45 to 60 g) sugar
If available, add ¼ teaspoon (1.25 g) salt substitute, such as "Lite Salt".
(source http://my.webmd.com/hw/health_guide_ato ... ar=hw86827 ). ( Suggestion submitted by member Carrie).
4. If you are in a situation without any of the above fluids available, you can drink water and simultaneously eat some foods containing electrolytes - plain salty potato chips can help to replace sodium and a banana can replace potassium. (Suggestion submitted by member Sally).
5. If the diarrhea/vomiting continue or worsen, and you are having symptoms of dehydration despite your best efforts to keep up with water/electrolyte intake, GO IMMEDIATELY TO YOUR NEAREST EMERGENCY ROOM. You may need intravenous (IV) fluids to replace your losses. In some cases, it may be lifesaving.
Shirley
