Dehydration

Dehydration

Dehydration

University of Phoenix
SCI 241
November 20, 2011
Professor Deborah Phinney

As many people are aware, water makes up more than two-thirds of the human body.   Water or fluids are needed to maintain the essential functions of the body. The human brain is made up of 95% water; the blood is 82% water, and the lungs are 90% water (APEC).   Even mild dehydration can cause difficulty with mental acuity, focus, and vision. Failure to replace adequate fluid levels, sickness, and death could result within days.   .  
Water is extremely important to the mechanics of the body.   Water is needed for the proper function of each cell, organ, and muscle.   Water acts as a lubricant, is the main ingredient in saliva and tears.   Water is needed to regulate body temperature, metabolism, aids in the movement of food through the intestinal tract, and is the best detoxifying agent (APEC).   Water may also be a key to the prevention of many illnesses and diseases.   Also recent research has shown that11 cups of water each day may decrease the chance of bladder cancer.   The amount of water dilutes the urine, which dilutes the concentration of any harmful chemicals which may be present and may be a cause of cancer (Carson-DeWitt M .D., 2011).
Water is required by nearly all major systems in the body. As stated above, water is needed for tears and saliva production. More important, water is needed for regulating body temperature, assisting the kidneys with expelling waste products, carrying nutrients and oxygen to the cells, lubricating joints, and assisting in mental focus and acuity (Mayoclinic.com).  
When a deficiency of water occurs in the body, many symptoms may occur.   Thirst is the most common and the first symptom to arise.   When experiencing vomiting, diarrhea, excessive sweating, and the use of diuretics may cause dehydration. At the onset of dehydration, the person may simply experience a dry mouth and feel thirsty. As the condition worsens, the person may...