High fever is a common symptom of many diseases and can lead to dehydration, which can seriously affect health. But why does fever cause dehydration, and what should patients with high fever do to rehydrate quickly? Let’s explore in this article.
Why does fever cause dehydration?
When you have a fever, the body increases its activity to fight the underlying cause of the illness, but this also leads to dehydration through several mechanisms:
1. Increased sweating
Fever raises the body temperature, stimulating the nervous system to release heat through sweat. The more sweat produced, the more water the body loses, especially when the fever persists or in hot environments (Harvard Health).
2. Increased respiratory rate
During a fever, the breathing rate usually increases to supply more oxygen to the body. However, this process also causes additional water loss through the respiratory system (Mayo Clinic).
3. Increased basal metabolism
When having a fever, the body uses more energy than usual to fight bacteria or viruses. This increases the need for water, while the amount of water lost through metabolic processes also rises.
4. Nausea and diarrhea accompanying the fever
Certain diseases causing high fever, such as gastrointestinal infections, are often accompanied by diarrhea or nausea, which increases the risk of rapid dehydration.
Signs of dehydration in high fever patients
When a fever leads to dehydration, the patient may experience the following symptoms:
- Dry mouth and lips: An early sign of dehydration.
- Dry skin and loss of elasticity: When pinching the skin, it does not return to its normal state quickly.
- Dark or infrequent urine: Indicates the body is lacking water.
- Fatigue, dizziness: Dehydration affects blood circulation and nerve function.
How to rehydrate quickly when having a fever
Proper rehydration is an important factor in helping the patient recover quickly. Here are some effective methods:
1. Use oral rehydration solutions
ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution): Contains a balance of ions and glucose, helping to quickly restore water and electrolytes. This is the optimal choice when the patient has diarrhea along with fever.
2. Drink enough water
Provide water regularly, divided into several sessions throughout the day, especially warm water to support digestion and improve blood circulation.
Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic drinks, as they can cause diuresis, leading to increased water loss.
3. Eat water-rich foods
Fruits like watermelon, cucumber, oranges, or soups and broths are natural sources of water. They also provide important nutrients.
4. Maintain stable body temperature
Use a warm compress or a gentle fan to help reduce body temperature without causing further dehydration.
5. In severe cases: Use intravenous fluids
When the patient is severely dehydrated, doctors may prescribe intravenous fluids to quickly restore water and balance electrolytes.
Preventing dehydration from fever
To prevent dehydration during a fever, follow these measures:
- Drink water regularly: Even if you’re not thirsty, maintain a steady water intake every day.
- Pay attention to symptoms: Watch for signs of dehydration to intervene early.
- Treat fever promptly: Use fever-reducing medications as prescribed by the doctor to control body temperature.
Understanding why fever causes dehydration and how to handle high fever dehydration is crucial for protecting health, especially since this condition can lead to dangerous complications if not treated promptly. Quick rehydration, from drinking water and electrolyte solutions to medical intervention, is an essential step in helping the body recover quickly and safely.
References:
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/symptoms-of-dehydration-what-they-are-and-what-to-do-if-you-experience-them
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dehydration/symptoms-causes/syc-20354086
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/153363
- https://www.afcurgentcare.com/perth-amboy/blog/can-dehydration-cause-a-fever/
Read more:
Join the Club
Like this story? You’ll love our monthly newsletter.
Thank you for subscribing to the newsletter.
Oops. Something went wrong. Please try again later.
