Dehydration results when the fluid levels in your body are too low, according to Medline Plus. Your body may expel too much water through excessive sweating, vomiting or diarrhea. Not drinking enough water, particularly in hot weather or when exercising, is also a common cause of dehydration. Recognizing the symptoms of dehydration early allows you to address the issue before severe symptoms occur.
Dry Mouth
A dry mouth is one of the first signs of dehydration. If you notice your mouth is sticky and dry combined with feelings of thirst, your body is letting you know that you need to drink water. The thirst and dryness of the mouth continue to worsen if the dehydration isn't sufficiently addressed.
Decreased Fluids
Decreased fluid output from the body is another clue that you may be dehydrated, according to MayoClinic.com. A lack of tears while crying, or infrequent urination are both examples of a decreased fluid symptom of dehydration. For infants, watch for less than six wet diapers over the course of the day as a potential indicator of dehydration. An older child who goes for more than eight hours without urinating may also be dehydrated.
The color of the urine also provides a sign that the body is dehydrated. Concentrated, dark yellow urine often means the body is dehydrated. Light yellow or clear urine means the body is well hydrated.
Weakness or Dizziness
As the body's fluid decreases, you may feel weakness in your muscles, become sleepy and feel fatigued, according to MayoClinic.com. Children often decrease their activity levels with dehydration. You may feel dizzy or lightheaded as well.
Severe Dehydration
If the symptoms of dehydration are ignored, the dehydration may worsen, requiring medical attention. Many of the initial symptoms, such as thirst, dry mouth and decreased urination, become much more severe. Urination may cease completely. The body reduces or stops sweat production. Other symptoms of severe dehydration may include fussiness, irritability, confusion, sunken eyes, loss of skin elasticity, sunken fontanels in babies, low blood pressure, rapid heartbeat and fever. In extreme dehydration cases, the person may lose consciousness.
