Which of the following is a condition caused by the excessive loss of water from the body?

Dehydration is a condition characterized by the excessive loss of water from the body, leading to an imbalance in the body's fluids. This can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as inadequate fluid intake, excessive sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, or certain medical conditions. When the body loses more fluids than it takes in, it can result in symptoms like thirst, dry mouth, fatigue, and reduced urine output. Severe dehydration can lead to serious health issues, including kidney problems and electrolyte imbalances.

Other conditions, while related to body fluid status, do not primarily stem from the loss of water in the same way. For example, hyperhydration refers to an excess of water in the body, while shock can result from various factors, including dehydration but is typically more complex and involves inadequate blood flow to organs. Hypotension, or low blood pressure, can be a consequence of dehydration but can also occur due to other factors unrelated to fluid loss. Therefore, dehydration specifically is the correct choice as it directly describes the excessive loss of water from the body.