rehydration

physiology

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Last updated

July 16, 2026

Quick Summary

Dehydration is the loss of water from the body, often accompanied by a loss of salt. This can occur due to insufficient water intake or excessive water loss through sweat, urine, or bodily fluids like vomit or diarrhea.1

Symptoms range from thirst and dry mouth to more severe issues like fever, decreased blood pressure, and impaired kidney function as dehydration progresses.1

Rehydration involves replacing both lost water and electrolytes to restore the body's normal fluid balance. Treatment focuses on addressing the cause of dehydration and administering appropriate amounts of salt and water to gradually restore equilibrium.12

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cholera
Symptoms and treatment
For oral rehydration the solution is made by using oral rehydration salts (ORS)—a measured mixture of glucose, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, and trisodium citrate. The mixture can be prepackaged and administered by nonmedical personnel, allowing cholera to be treated even under the most adverse conditions. ORS can…
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For oral rehydration the solution is made by using oral rehydration salts (ORS)—a measured mixture of glucose, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, and trisodium citrate. The mixture can be prepackaged and administered by nonmedical personnel, allowing cholera to be treated even under the most adverse conditions. ORS can…
Read More