Dehydration

What are the treatments for the condition?

The treatment for dehydration is to rehydrate the body. This can be done by drinking fluids or by getting fluids through an IV. Drinking fluids usually relieves mild dehydration quickly. Moderate to severe dehydration may need to be treated with fluids given through an IV.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

There are usually no side effects from either drinking fluids or getting them through an IV. If a dehydrated person drinks beverages that contain caffeine, such as teas, soda, and coffee, they may feel worse. Caffeine causes more urination, so it can undo the benefit of drinking fluids. Water, sports drinks, and special beverages for children such as Pedialyte help restore hydration and chemical balance. Pedialyte is sold in pharmacies and many food stores. It is mostly water, but also contains salts to prevent chemical imbalances in the blood.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

A person usually will feel much better once his or her body has been rehydrated.

How is the condition monitored?

Dehydration is almost always caused by a specific event or disease. So it usually does not need long-term monitoring. A person who tends to take in too little fluid will be encouraged to drink more consistently during the day and during sports.