Dehydration and Water Intoxication
Start with the big picture
Dehydration occurs when water loss exceeds intake, often increasing serum osmolality; its type is classified by serum sodium. Causes include gastrointestinal losses, sweating, burns, diuretics, diabetes insipidus, and osmotic diuresis. The body responds by conserving sodium and water, while findings may include thirst, reduced urine output, and concentrated urine. Water intoxication is excess free water that dilutes serum sodium and osmolality. Causes include SIADH, psychogenic polydipsia, hypotonic fluids, renal failure, and MDMA use. Its effects can include cerebral edema and neurological symptoms. The lesson contrasts these patterns and introduces management principles, including cautious correction to reduce the risk of serious complications.
What you'll learn
- Distinguish dehydration from water intoxication using water balance, serum osmolality, and sodium patterns.
- Classify dehydration by serum sodium concentration.
- Identify common causes and hormonal responses associated with each disorder.
- Recognize characteristic clinical and laboratory findings and potential complications.
- Describe broad management principles and why sodium correction must be cautious.
Continue your study
Work through the complete notes and reinforce the topic with the study tools available in the full lesson.
