Final answer:
Dehydration is the result of the body losing more water than it takes in, which can be dangerous and lead to symptoms such as dizziness, heart palpitations, and severe health consequences if not treated. It can be caused by various factors, including illness and environmental conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Water loss of as little as 2 percent can lead to dehydration, a condition where the loss of water exceeds the intake and leads to reduced body water content. Dehydration can result in several issues, such as low hydration status, disturbances in acid-base balance, and fatigue. When dehydration occurs, the signs and symptoms like dizziness, fainting, and headaches become noticeable.
Water is critical for micronutrient functioning and metabolic processes in the body. Without proper hydration, essential bodily functions can be compromised, leading to symptoms such as weakness, heart palpitations, and even death in severe cases.
Certain conditions like vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and exposure to high environmental temperatures can exacerbate water loss. This water loss is particularly dangerous in infants, those with kidney disease, or anyone experiencing extreme conditions that increase the body's demands for water.