Causes of Hypertonic Dehydration
Fluid Loss through the Skin
One of the most common causes of hypertonic dehydration is the loss of body fluids through excessive expiration and sweating. Some factors may worsen this loss, such as burns, strenuous exercises, and overexposure to high temperatures or heat. In addition, people with a decreased thirst mechanism, cognitive deficits, or those who are immobile may not take sufficient fluids to compensate for the loss, which makes them more prone to hypertonic dehydration. [5]
Fluid Loss due to Gastrointestinal Tract Issues
Vomiting and diarrhea are the two common triggers of hypertonic dehydration because of quick fluid loss via the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, the use of laxatives, which work by stimulating bowel movements, would increase the risk of diarrhea and ensuring hypertonic dehydration. In children, infection diarrhea, also known as gastroenteritis, may cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and increase the risk of hypertonic dehydration. An abnormal opening in the digestive tract called a fistula may also result in hypertonic dehydration. Gastric suctioning, a medical process to remove some contents in the stomach, may be linked to excessive fluid loss as well. Other conditions that may cause hypertonic dehydration include peritonitis, pancreatitis, and ascites. [6]
