What causes Dehydration?

Dehydration occurs when fluid loss exceeds fluid intake. Factors that contribute to dehydration include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• High fever
• Exposure to the heat and sun
• Excessive exercise
• Medications, including:
  • Diuretics (water pills)
  • Laxatives
• Inadequate fluid intake due to:
  • Mobility problems
  • Mental or memory problems
  • Decreased thirst perception
  • Desire to limit incontinence
• Fluid imbalance caused by illnesses, such as:
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Diabetes insipidus
  • Lung disease
  • Kidney problems
  • Burns