Why is Hypovolemic Shock More Likely to Occur in Hypotonic Dehydration?

During hypotonic dehydration, excessive water loss and insufficient blood volume in the human body can easily lead to circulatory failure. Hypotonic dehydration is a pathological state characterized by an increase in the osmolarity of the extracellular fluid. At this time, excessive water loss and decreased blood volume are the main reasons for circulatory failure.

1. Excessive Water Loss

In high-temperature environments, the human body loses water through excessive sweating or conditions such as vomiting and diarrhea. For example, constant sweating after exercising in summer or frequent diarrhea due to gastrointestinal problems can lead to water loss in the body. Water loss reduces the fluid in the blood, increases blood viscosity, and affects blood circulation.

2. Insufficient Blood Volume

Severe diarrhea can lead to gastrointestinal mucosal edema, affecting its function and the ability to effectively absorb nutrients and water. In this case, the body not only lacks energy but is also prone to electrolyte imbalances, especially hyponatremia, which further reduces blood volume. Reduced blood volume directly affects the heart's pumping ability, potentially leading to decreased blood pressure and circulatory failure.

Symptoms of hypotonic dehydration include increased renal tubular reabsorption of water due to elevated plasma crystalloid osmolarity, resulting in decreased urine output. Patients may experience thirst, fatigue, decreased effective blood volume after blood concentration, increased heart rate, mild increase in blood pressure, rapid and thin pulse, cold extremities, dry lips, and may even experience shock. The key to treating hypotonic dehydration is timely fluid replenishment. Clinically, sodium chloride injection and glucose injection are commonly used. If patients have severe nausea or vomiting, they need to fast and receive intravenous infusions of saline or balanced salt solutions to replenish fluids.

To prevent hypotonic dehydration, pay attention to a balanced diet in daily life, avoid excessive alcohol consumption and overeating. If significant discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to avoid delaying treatment. Although hypotonic dehydration is commonly seen in high-temperature environments or gastrointestinal diseases, by paying attention to replenishing water and electrolytes and maintaining good living habits, we can effectively prevent it. For friends with related symptoms, seeking medical attention promptly is the best choice.