Fluid Restriction: Care Instructions

Overview

A buildup of fluid in the body can cause low sodium levels in the blood. It may also cause symptoms such as swelling and pain. Your doctor may suggest that you limit liquids, including foods that contain a lot of liquid. Limiting liquids is called fluid restriction.

Limiting the amount of fluids you take in can help balance sodium levels in your body. Your doctor will tell you how much fluid you can have in a day.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Find a way of tracking the fluids you take in that works for you. Here are two methods you can try:
  • Write down how much you drink throughout the day.
  • Keep a container filled with the amount of liquid allowed for the day. As you drink liquids during the day, such as a 6-ounce cup of coffee, pour that same amount out of the container. When the container is empty, you've had your liquid for the day.
• Count any foods that will melt (such as ice cream, gelatin, or flavored ice treats) or liquid foods (such as soup) as part of your fluids for the day. Also count the liquid in canned fruits and vegetables as part of your daily intake, or drain them well before serving.
• Space your liquids throughout the day. Then you won't be tempted to drink more than the amount your doctor recommends.
• To relieve thirst without taking in extra water, try chewing gum, sucking on hard candy (sugarless if you have diabetes), or rinsing your mouth with water and spitting it out.

To help with any fluid measurements, here are some common household measures:

This amount of fluid:	is the same as:	and the same as:
1 tablespoon	½ fluid ounce (fl oz)	15 milliliters (mL)
½ cup	4 fl oz	About 120 mL
1 cup	8 fl oz	About 250 mL
4 cups (1 quart)	32 fl oz	About 1,000 mL, or 1 liter

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You have severe trouble breathing.
• You cough up pink, foamy mucus.
• You have a new irregular or rapid heartbeat.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have new or worse nausea and vomiting.
• You have much less urine than normal, or you have no urine.
• You are feeling confused or cannot think clearly.
• You have new or increased shortness of breath.
• You have new or more blood in your urine.
• You have new swelling.
• You are dizzy or lightheaded, or you feel like you may faint

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you develop new symptoms.