Dehydration Case

Dehydration

The definition of dehydration is an abnormal loss of water from the body (www.dictionary.com). Without the proper water levels in the body certain organs such as the heart, brain, and the kidneys cannot function correctly. Dehydration normally occurs when an individual is not well, is sick, or a result form physical exertion. More infants and children suffer from dehydration than adults, however if an individual is sick and voting a lot or has diarrhea for an extend period of time the end result can remotely lead to them becoming dehydrated.

Water is one of the most essential elements in the world and is ultimately the basis for all life existing on the planet Earth. The older we get the less water our bodies require. For example, water makes up around 80 percent of body mass as infants, but it only makes up around 50 to 60 percent in an individual's late 50's (www.livestrong.com). This percentage is also changeable between men and woman. Women tend to have more fatty tissue in their body mass, therefore resulting in a lower percentage of water in their body. Our brain, our blood, and even our muscles all incorporate a large quantity of water.

Since water is not something that is stored in our bodies it is imperative that we are continually replacing it. Without water our body cannot function to the best of its ability. Water helps to transport nutrients to different organs in our body. It maintains and regulates our body's temperature, makes sure our joints are protected, water dismisses certain waste from our bodies, and it carries oxygen to our cells (Grosvenor & Smolin, 2007). Since water helps with flushing out waste in our body it aids in keeping us healthy. Not only does it regularly complete the all the task listed above it does even more; it helps with digestion and the rate at which our metabolism functions (www.livestrong.com).

When an individual does not supply their body with the amount of water it needs to function properly, dehydration can occur. This individual may experience numerous symptoms from becoming dehydrated. They may become lethargic, their eyes can begin to sag due to the lack of tear production, and their mouth can become dry. Dehydration can also cause an individual's blood pressure to decrease and make their heart beat slower than usual. Another side effect that dehydration can have on the body is disruption of their whole digestive system, as well as the rate at which their metabolism performs (Grosvenor & Smolin, 2007).

The medical definition of electrolyte stands for ions or salts in the human body (www.medterms.com). Chloride, potassium, and sodium are three of the body's main electrolytes. All three electrolytes have different jobs that aid in the process of running the body without error.

Out of all three electrolytes chloride is a negative ion. It is located in blood, as well in the outer fluid surrounding the cells. Chloride helps with keeping fluid levels stable. Chloride is found in common table salt it is the negatively charge part of salt.