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Dehydration » Definition
Dehydration means your body does not have as
much water and fluids as it should. Dehydration
can be caused by losing too much fluid, not drinking
enough water or fluids, or both. Vomiting and
diarrhea are common causes.
Infants and children are more susceptible to dehydration
than adults because of their smaller body weights
and higher turnover of water and electrolytes.
The elderly and those with illnesses are also
at higher risk.
Dehydration is classified as mild, moderate, or
severe based on the percentage of body weight
lost. When severe, dehydration is a life-threatening
emergency.
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