Side Effect: Dehydration

Dehydration is a common concern for cancer patients undergoing treatment. It occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, leading to a lack of water and essential electrolytes. This condition can be triggered by many factors, including treatment side effects, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and the underlying cancer itself. Dehydration is a serious issue that can lead to hospitalization, treatment delays, and worsened outcomes for patients with cancer.

Dehydration can present in many ways. Recognizing these signs is important so treatment can be started quickly.
Some common signs include:

• Thirst
• Dry mouth, lips, gums, and nostrils
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Sleepiness
• Fatigue
• Darker urine color and reduced urination
• Constipation
• Dry skin that "tents" when lightly pinched
• Low blood pressure
• Increased body temperature
• Weakness
• Rapid weight loss
• Poor appetite

Cancer and its treatment can lead to dehydration through various mechanisms, such as:

• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Fever
• Sweating
• Decreased fluid intake
• Increased fluid loss due to chemotherapy-induced kidney damage
• Water pills, also called “diuretics” (examples: furosemide, bumetanide, torsemide)
• Laxatives (examples: magnesium citrate, polyethylene glycol)
  Different types of cancer and specific treatments you are undergoing can affect your fluid needs, making it important to maintain proper hydration.

Preventing dehydration is important to decrease the severity of treatment side effects and avoid missed or delayed cancer treatments. Here are some strategies to prevent dehydration:

• Maintain good fluid intake
• Replace fluids lost from vomiting, diarrhea, or fever
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can dehydrate the body further
• Tracking your fluid intake with a log can help ensure you meet your individual needs.
  Staying hydrated can reduce your risk of dehydration-related complications and the need for intravenous (IV) hydration.

The treatment of dehydration in cancer patients depends on how severe it is. Mild dehydration can often be managed by increasing fluid intake, while severe cases may require hospitalization and intravenous (IV) fluids. If dehydration is caused by certain medications, it is important to stop those medications, if possible. In some cases, electrolytes may be given to replace the electrolytes that have been lost. Identifying the underlying cause of dehydration is essential for proper treatment. In some cases, it may be recommended to talk to a dietician to determine your specific fluid needs.