Teens who participate in summer sports or sports that require endurance training need to understand the signs and symptoms of dehydration, as well as how to prevent dehydration and treat these symptoms should they arise. If you've recently had an illness that included vomiting or diarrhea, you should also pay close attention to your body to check for signs or symptoms of dehydration, regardless of your personal activity level. Keep in mind that dehydration itself can be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as diabetes, so if you are experiencing repeated bouts of dehydration with no obvious cause, check with your doctor for further testing.
Thirst
While thirst is often an indication of dehydration, it won't be the first symptom you experience, according to Dr. Steven Dowshen, the Chief Medical Editor at the KidsHealth website. It's important to remain aware of early signs of dehydration so you can address the problem before it becomes more serious.
Urine Output and Color
If you are dehydrated, you may find the color of your urine is darker than normal, or you may not need to urinate as often as you normally do. One way to determine the degree to which you may be dehydrated is by the color and amount of urine output. The darker the color of the urine, the more severe the dehydration, reports MayoClinic.com.
Mental Changes
Teens who are experiencing mild dehydration may feel dizzy or light-headed. If you experience extreme symptoms, such as confusion or loss of consciousness, you should visit a physician to receive intravenous fluids to treat the dehydration as quickly as possible.
Dry Mouth
According to MayoClinic.com, you may have a dry mouth or your mouth may feel "sticky," even after taking a drink, when you are dehydrated. If you are no longer sweating despite physical exertion or heat, this can be a sign of severe dehydration.
Warning
Dehydration can lead to more serious conditions, such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke, which can lead to death if left untreated. If you or a friend are exhibiting signs of dehydration, take a break in the shade, drink some water and contact an adult for help if you don't start to feel better.
