Generally, intravenous, popularly called IV, solutions are used to distribute vital substances (such as electrolyte, alkaline, nutrient) to cystic fibrosis patients. They are divided into isotonic, hypotonic, and hypertonic solutions. In this article, we will focus on hypertonic solutions. The interior of the cell of a hypertonic solution has lesser solutes in it in contrast to the exterior of the cell. Therefore, it causes leakage of liquid from the cell into the solution that surrounds it.
Additionally, this process is done to dilute the infusate and restore balance in electrolytes and acid-base disequilibrium. Hypertonic solutions comprise parenteral nutrition and electrolyte replacement solutions. Hypertonic solutions have a variety of uses and can be found in more places than you might assume. Delve deeper to know common examples of hypertonic IV solutions and other relevant information.
When do you Use Hypertonic IV Solutions?
People often ask “how do hypertonic IV solutions work?” but knowing when to use it is more important. Did you know that the human body contains 60% water? Hospitals usually administer hypertonic solutions via IV drips or injections to improve the fluid equilibrium in a patient’s body. When you are dehydrated, the electrolytes in your body system becomes imbalanced and you feel fatigued. Also, your kidney automatically harbors water due to the high concentration in your blood. Ultimately, your heart feels more pressure as a result of the stress on your body.
Symptoms of hypertonic dehydration include restlessness, seizures, fatigue, high body temperature, extremely dry mouth, thirst, and more. These medical conditions can be found in humans ranging from infants to adults. Furthermore, hypertonic saline aids hydration which keeps your body healthy. Some cases in which you require hypertonic solution treatments include:
- Dehydration
- Congestive heart failure (CHF)
Examples of Hypertonic IV Solutions
A hypertonic solution simply means low solvent and high solute. In hospitals, you can find hypertonic IV solutions like D5 NaCl, 3% Saline, D5 in Lactated ringers, D5 0.45% NaCl, and 10% Dextrose in Water (D10W). Nevertheless, there are more conventional types of hypertonic solutions that you can easily find in local stores and locations around you. For instance, seawater and sugary drinks are typical examples.
- SUGARY DRINKS: When there is more sugar than water in a mixture, the solution becomes hypertonic by default. Furthermore, sugary drinks take water from your intestinal cells which makes it impossible to absorb nutrients.
- SEAWATER: There is a high presence of salt particles on seawater which is why it is an example of hypertonic IV solutions. The main sources of sodium in the seawater are rocks from the land and apertures in the seafloor. Due to the amount of sodium in saltwater, freshwater fish and plants can’t survive in seawater.
In conclusion
In most cases, you need hypertonic IV solutions when you lose electrolyte so you don’t rapidly lose minerals in your body. Note that it isn’t advisable to self-medicate so you should see a doctor when you notice any of the symptoms in the aforementioned medical conditions and symptoms. Ensure that you know the precise diagnosis before using hypertonic solutions and get a doctor’s prescription. Finally, stay away from sugary drinks when you are exercising, on a diet, and need to hydrate.
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