Explain the relationship between dehydration and hyponatremia in endurance athletes. (4 marks)
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Sample Answer
- Dehydration occurs when fluid losses exceed intake, affecting cardiovascular function and thermoregulation, which impairs movement efficiency during prolonged activity.
- Hyponatremia (dangerously low sodium levels) can paradoxically develop when athletes consume excessive plain water without adequate electrolyte replacement, diluting blood sodium to dangerous levels.
- During endurance events, athletes lose both fluid and sodium through sweat, creating a delicate balance where improper hydration strategies focusing solely on water intake can exacerbate sodium imbalances.
- Symptoms of hyponatremia including nausea, headaches, muscle weakness and in severe cases, seizures or coma, can be mistakenly attributed to dehydration, highlighting the importance of proper hydration strategies that include electrolyte replacement.
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Sample Answer
- Dehydration occurs when fluid losses exceed intake, affecting cardiovascular function and thermoregulation, which impairs movement efficiency during prolonged activity.
- Hyponatremia (dangerously low sodium levels) can paradoxically develop when athletes consume excessive plain water without adequate electrolyte replacement, diluting blood sodium to dangerous levels.
- During endurance events, athletes lose both fluid and sodium through sweat, creating a delicate balance where improper hydration strategies focusing solely on water intake can exacerbate sodium imbalances.
- Symptoms of hyponatremia including nausea, headaches, muscle weakness and in severe cases, seizures or coma, can be mistakenly attributed to dehydration, highlighting the importance of proper hydration strategies that include electrolyte replacement.