Which condition describes hypertonic dehydration?

Which condition describes hypertonic dehydration?

• A. Water loss is greater than sodium loss
• B. Sodium loss is greater than water loss
• C. Equilibrium between sodium and water loss
• D. No dehydration present

Answer: (A)

Hypertonic dehydration occurs when the loss of water from the body is greater than the loss of sodium. This imbalance results in an increased concentration of sodium in the extracellular fluid, which can lead to hypernatremia. When there is inadequate water intake or excessive loss of water due to conditions like prolonged sweating, fever, or respiratory illness, the body loses more water relative to sodium. The high sodium concentration pulls water out of cells, leading to cellular dehydration and other complications. Understanding this condition is crucial for managing fluid and electrolyte imbalances, particularly in older adults who may be more susceptible to dehydration. The other options describe scenarios that don't align with the definition of hypertonic dehydration. For instance, if sodium loss exceeds water loss, it would be a different type of fluid imbalances, potentially resulting in hyponatremia. An equilibrium state between sodium and water loss would indicate normal hydration status rather than dehydration. Lastly, if no dehydration is present, the concept of hypertonic dehydration would not apply at all.

Hypertonic dehydration occurs when the loss of water from the body is greater than the loss of sodium. This imbalance results in an increased concentration of sodium in the extracellular fluid, which can lead to hypernatremia. When there is inadequate water intake or excessive loss of water due to conditions like prolonged sweating, fever, or respiratory illness, the body loses more water relative to sodium. The high sodium concentration pulls water out of cells, leading to cellular dehydration and other complications. Understanding this condition is crucial for managing fluid and electrolyte imbalances, particularly in older adults who may be more susceptible to dehydration.

The other options describe scenarios that don't align with the definition of hypertonic dehydration. For instance, if sodium loss exceeds water loss, it would be a different type of fluid imbalances, potentially resulting in hyponatremia. An equilibrium state between sodium and water loss would indicate normal hydration status rather than dehydration. Lastly, if no dehydration is present, the concept of hypertonic dehydration would not apply at all.