Dehydration and the dying patient.

The management of dehydration in the terminally ill is a complex and emotive issue. Some health care professionals contend that a reduced fluid intake may result in dehydration which is both painful and distressing for the patient. Conversely, others suggest that artificial hydration has not been proven to benefit dying patients and may even add to their distress both physically and psychologically. These benefits and burdens are also of great concern to the relatives of dying patients and the health professionals who care for them. This paper reviews the literature concerning the pathophysiology of dehydration and discusses the effects of dehydration on dying patients.