Which term refers to fluid loss exceeding intake disrupting electrolyte balance?

• A. Dehydration
• B. Cachexia
• C. Malnutrition
• D. Malabsorption

Answer: (A)

When fluid loss exceeds intake, the body develops dehydration, a deficit of body water that disrupts electrolyte balance because electrolytes are dissolved in that water. If you don’t replace what’s lost, serum osmolality rises, triggering thirst and mechanisms to conserve water, but continued deficits lead to cells shrinking and impaired function. Early signs are thirst, dry mouth, and reduced urine output; as dehydration worsens, you may see dry skin, tachycardia, low blood pressure, confusion, and decreased skin turgor. The other terms describe nutritional issues rather than fluid balance, so they don’t capture the problem of a water deficit with electrolyte disruption.