How to treat hyperosmotic dehydration

Nov 05, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
The treatment of hyperosmolar dehydration focuses on replenishing water and correcting electrolyte imbalances. Common approaches include oral rehydration, intravenous infusion of hypotonic solutions, treatment of underlying causes, monitoring of clinical changes, and electrolyte supplementation. The treatment plan should be tailored according to the severity of dehydration. If symptoms such as high fever, altered mental status, or significantly reduced urine output occur, immediate medical attention is recommended.

  The treatment of hypertonic dehydration focuses on fluid replacement and correction of electrolyte imbalances. Common approaches include oral rehydration, intravenous infusion of hypotonic solutions, treatment of underlying causes, monitoring of clinical changes, and electrolyte supplementation. Treatment plans should be individualized according to the severity of dehydration. Immediate medical attention is recommended if symptoms such as high fever, altered mental status, or significantly reduced urine output occur.

  1. Oral rehydration: Suitable for mild dehydration. Patients are encouraged to drink warm water or weak saline solution in small amounts frequently. This helps replenish fluids and mildly corrects electrolyte imbalances, while avoiding gastrointestinal discomfort caused by excessive water intake at once.

  2. Intravenous infusion of hypotonic solutions: Used for moderate to severe dehydration. Commonly administered solutions include 0.45% sodium chloride or 5% glucose solution, given by slow intravenous drip to gradually reduce blood osmolality. Rapid infusion must be avoided to prevent cerebral edema.

  3. Treatment of underlying causes: Actively manage conditions causing fluid loss, such as controlling high fever, treating vomiting and diarrhea, and discontinuing medications that promote fluid loss. Addressing the root cause helps minimize ongoing fluid depletion and prevents recurrence of dehydration.

  4. Monitoring of clinical changes: Regularly monitor serum sodium, blood glucose, urine output, and mental status during treatment. Adjust the volume and rate of fluid administration based on test results to avoid under- or over-hydration, ensuring a gradual return of plasma osmolality to normal levels.

  5. Electrolyte supplementation: If complications such as hypokalemia or hypocalcemia occur, appropriate amounts of potassium chloride, calcium chloride, or other electrolytes should be administered under medical supervision to maintain electrolyte balance and prevent complications like arrhythmias or muscle cramps due to electrolyte disturbances.

  In daily life, individuals should adjust fluid intake according to weather conditions and activity level, avoid prolonged physical exertion in high temperatures, consume adequate salt in the diet, and promptly replenish fluids during episodes of diarrhea or fever to prevent the occurrence of hypertonic dehydration.