Roles of Fluid in the Body
True or False: The body is about 60% fluids
True!
What is osmosis?
The transfer of fluids throughout the body.
What is edema?
Fluids leaking into intercellular spaces.
What is dehydration?
Not drinking enough fluids OR losing fluid faster than you can take it in.
What do fluids transport in the body?
Nutrients and metabolic waste.
What is hypotonic?
More solutes inside the cell than outside.
What are three causes of edema?
Menstruation, medications, malnutrition
What are "natural" ways we lose fluids?
Breathing, urination, defecation, sweating.
What do fluids do for body temperature and blood pressure?
They help to sustain normal body temperature and regulate blood pressure.
What is hypertonic?
More solutes outside than inside the cell.
What is the treatment for water retention?
Treat the underlying cause or diuretic medications.
What are symptoms of dehydration?
Lightheaded, dry mouth, tired, rapid heart rate, dizziness, confusion
What does fluid do for cells?
Supports cell shape and structure.
What is isotonic?
Equal amount inside and outside the cell.
What is water loading?
Drinking a lot of water in a short period of time to manipulate weight.
What are complications of dehydration?
Kidney problems (UTI's, failure), seizures (related to electrolyte disturbances).
How do electrolytes interact with water?
Ions of electrolytes are dissolved in water.
Name three effects of water loading?
Nausea/vomiting, electrolyte deficiencies, uncomfortable urges to go to the bathroom.
What is the treatment of dehydration?
Drink more fluids; may need fluids with electrolytes; and may require IV in severe cases.