Dehydration means there is not enough fluid in the body. This can be worsened by diarrhea, vomiting, and sweating. Sleeping a lot because of fatigue and not drinking enough fluids can cause dehydration. Dehydration can cause complications such as extreme weakness, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and confusion.
Call the clinic or hospital right away if any of these symptoms occur:
- Confusion
- Fainting
- Feeling dizzy or light-headed
- Feeling really weak and dizzy or passing out
- No desire to eat and drink
- Urinating less, or passing urine that is dark with a strong odor
- Vomiting or diarrhea not controlled with medicines
What patients can do:
- Drink plenty of liquids that do not have caffeine.
- Eat fluid-rich foods such as soups, smoothies, and juicy fruits.
- Talk with the nurse or a dietitian in the Wellness-Survivorship Center for more help with a diet plan.
- Tell the doctor or nurse about any symptoms of dehydration as soon as possible. Some patients need to get fluids through a vein to treat dehydration.
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