MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Fluid imbalance

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Fluid imbalance

Contents of this page:
Definition Causes	Treatment When to Contact a Medical Professional

Definition

A fluid imbalance occurs when the level of body fluids is abnormal.

Causes

Many illnesses can cause fluid imbalance. A fluid imbalance also can occur after certain types of heart surgery. It is common to retain large amounts of fluid for several days after surgery (causing swelling of the body). Children may show symptoms of fluid imbalance from diarrhea.

Treatment

It is important to replace fluids in a child who has diarrhea, but not give the child too many fluids. The child may not need medical supervision.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if you have signs of dehydration or swelling, in order to prevent more serious complications.

Update Date: 8/14/2007

Updated by: Charles Silberberg, DO, Private Practice specializing in Nephrology, Affiliated with NY Medical College, Division of Nephrology, Valhalla, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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