Dehydration

Extreme loss of water from the body tissues, often accompanied by imbalance of sodium, potassium, chloride, and other electrolytes in the body. Dehydration may occur in prolonged diarrhoea, vomiting, or perspiration and is of particular concern in infants and young children. Symptoms include thirst, dry skin, cracked lips, and dry mouth. Treatment involves restoring the fluid and electrolyte balance either by having the person drink liquids or by the intravenous administration of water and salts.