In most cases what accounts for the majority of fluid losses?

• A. Unavoidable insensible losses
• B. Heavy perspiration only during exercise
• C. Vomiting and diarrhea only
• D. Sensible losses from the GIT and kidneys

Answer: (D)

Fluid losses are categorized as sensible (measurable) and insensible (not easily measured). In most everyday situations, the bulk of fluid loss comes from sensible routes—the kidneys (urine) and the GI tract (feces, and any vomiting). These outputs reflect ongoing physiology and intake, making them the primary means by which the body loses water under normal conditions. Insensible losses through the skin and respiratory tract occur continuously but are usually smaller in volume than the combined urine and stool output, unless a person is sweating heavily due to heat or exercise. Therefore, sensible losses from the GI tract and kidneys account for the majority of fluid losses in most cases.