Dehydration Treatment: FSA Eligibility

What is dehydration?

Dehydration refers a state in which the human body is extracts more water from cells and blood vessels than the body is brings in, which is a highly dangerous condition that can affect individuals of any age. While not drinking enough water is an obvious culprit, outside factors can also contribute to bringing about a state of dehydration, including diarrhea/vomiting, fever, burns, and excessive sweating or urination (Mayo Clinic).

How is dehydration treated?

First and foremost, ingesting more water is the easiest means of combating dehydration, but this is not always possible in some situations or may require additional supplementation, which is why there are a number of OTC dehydration treatments on the market to help alleviate the issue. The most common are oral re-hydration solutions, which consist of water and salts that are designed to replenish fluids and electrolytes in the body (Mayo Clinic).

These solutions are especially helpful to have around the home or in a first-aid kit, and they can be vital in treating a major stomach virus or flu by controlling the most debilitating effects of the ailment and promoting the recovery process. Room temperature fluids are best in these situations, and they should be given intermittently to the sick individual in small doses to ensure that it can be kept down. In most cases, dehydration treatments are available over-the-counter and should be taken as directed to combat dehydration symptoms and supplemented with the ingestion of liquids.