Longevity logo

Symptoms of Dehydration

Dehydration is a serious health concern especially when the weather is very hot.

By Margaret MinnicksPublished 5 years ago 3 min read
Like
(Photo by Amanda Mills via pixnio.com)

Dehydration a condition that occurs when a person doesn't have enough water in the body to function normally. Being out in the heat for long periods of time could cause dehydration. Unfortunately, some people might not even know they are dehydrated until they feel sick and need medical attention. Dehydration occurs when water loss in the body is greater than water intake, and the body temperature goes above 105 degrees.

It usually doesn't affect people to lose three to four percent of total body water. They don't experience any adverse health issues. However, they become dizzy and fatigue with a five to eight percent decrease. Over ten percent of total body water results in severe thirst, and physical and mental deterioration. Between fifteen and twenty-five percent decrease in water in the body could be fatal.

There is no one specific symptom of dehydration. However, here are some symptoms to look out for.

1. Increased Thirst

Constant thirst indicates a person might be dehydrated, especially if he has a dry and sticky mouth. The National Academy of Sciences recommends that women drink at least 2.7 liters of water a day. That's about 11.4 cups. The recommendation for men is 3.7 liters or 15 cups. If either women or men have spent a lot of time in the sun, or have been exercising, then they should drink even more water.

2. Feeling Tired

When some people are dehydrated, they could feel tired for no apparent reason. They could also become confused, angry, and forgetful. These symptoms usually show up in young children and the elderly.

A person's mood can change quickly even with mild dehydration, according to a study from the University of Connecticut’s Human Performance Laboratory. Dehydration occurs with as little as 1.5 percent loss of normal water in the body. That is true whether a person is exercising or doing nothing.

3. Headaches and Dizziness

(Photo by pheee via pixabay)

Dehydration can result in a number of aches, pains, and discomforts throughout the body. A person can experience light or migraine headaches. A five to eight percent decrease in body water can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, or weakness. He no longer has the ability to think clearly and make sound decisions.

4. Blurred Vision

When a person becomes dehydrated, his body fluid goes down, which results in dry eyes or blurred vision. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can prevent problems with your eyes.

5. Fever

Dehydration can lead to both a fever and chills. That's because your body becomes overheated, and changes its normal symptoms.

6. Muscle Cramps

Muscle cramping is a sign that you are not drinking enough water, and you might become dehydrated because of loss of water and salt from your body. To prevent muscle cramping from happening, you could snack on salted pretzels or low-fat cheeses, and drink sports beverages that contain sodium to help your body retain the water that it needs.

7. Dry Skin

Dry skin is a sign of dehydration, and you should drink water. The skin of a person who is dehydrated will look doughy, because it lacks elasticity, looks and feels thin, and will not bounce back when it is touched.

8. Lack of Sweat

The lack of sweat is also a major sign of dehydration. That means the body needs more water.

9. Dark Urine

When a person is hydrated, the color of his urine is light yellow. When he is dehydrated, his urine is a deep yellow or amber color. Check the color of your urine when you think you might be dehydrated.

10. Low Blood Pressure

When a person is dehydrated, his blood pressure drops. He is not able to stand. His heart rate also becomes rapid. Pay attention to these two things and drink more water.

Dehydration Prevention

Dehydration can be prevented. The easiest way to stay hydrated is to do three things.

  1. Stay out of the heat.
  2. Drink plenty of water with electrolytes.
  3. Limit long periods of exercise.

Disclaimer

This article is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge. The content is for informational purposes only. It does not substitute for medical or professional advice.

self care
Like

About the Creator

Margaret Minnicks

Margaret Minnicks shares articles with readers all over the world. Topics include celebrities, royal family, movies, television, foods, drinks, health issues, and other interesting things. Thanks in advance for TIPS that are sent my way.

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2024 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.