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Dehydration
Treatment Options
Treatment
at UPMC
Therapy aims to rehydrate the body, replace lost electrolytes, and
prevent complications. If an underlying cause is identified, therapies
to treat that condition may be included if appropriate.
Treatment includes:
Fluid Replacement
To help replace fluids:
- Drink a small amount of clear liquid every 15-30 minutes.
- Increase the amount of liquid as you can tolerate it.
- Stick with clear liquids, such as water or a special electrolyte
solution for the first 24 hours.
- If you cannot keep any liquids down, try sucking on ice cubes.
- Avoid beverages with alcohol or caffeine, such as coffee, tea,
and soft drinks. These promote fluid loss.
- Avoid sweetened drinks, fruit juices, and gelatin because they
can make diarrhea worse.
- If you are unable to adequately replace fluids and your condition
does not improve, contact your doctor. You may need intravenous fluids
or other medical care.
Nutrition
Dietary modifications include:
- If you have diarrhea but no vomiting, continue eating small amounts
of food frequently.
- If vomiting, once you can keep fluids down, slowly and gradually
return to a regular diet.
- Eat a well-balanced diet with fruits, starches, and fluids.
- Only eat small amounts of red meat and proteins.
- Avoid spicy foods and milk products until your symptoms are gone.
Medication
Medications may include:
- anti-emetics
for severe vomiting
- anti-diarrheal medicine
for severe diarrhea or abdominal cramping
- antibiotics
for severe diarrhea caused by a bacterial infection
Prevention
To prevent dehydration:
- Drink plenty of fluids, even if you are busy or sick.
- Drink fluids regularly while exercising or when outdoors on a hot
day. Stop frequently for fluid breaks.
Treatment at UPMC
This condition is typically treated by experts specializing
in:
Call UPMC at 800-533-UPMC (8762) to find a doctor and schedule an appointment.
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