Dehydration can be a serious condition if you do not take steps to hydrate yourself. In severe cases it can be fatal. If you are ill with diarrhea and vomiting, exercising excessively or spending time outside when it is hot and humid, you are at a higher risk of dehydration. Some diseases and medications can also cause you to become dehydrated. In the initial stages of dehydration, you can avoid complications by taking in enough fluid. If you are at risk, you need to be aware of the common symptoms of dehydration.
Thirst and Fatigue
You need to drink six to eight glasses of water each day to stay properly hydrated. You do not want to wait until you are thirsty to drink. If you do wait too long, you will feel thirsty and your mouth may be dry and sticky. The Mayo Clinic states that if left untreated your thirst becomes extreme. In addition, you may start to feel fatigued or be more tired than usual. You may experience mood swings and feel irritable, anxious or depressed.
Changes in Urination
Since your body is not getting the fluid it needs, you urinate less. Your urine also starts to become a dark yellow color. Urine should be clear or only a light yellow color. Once it becomes darker, you are becoming dehydrated. Your urine may change color before you feel thirsty. Your doctor can perform a physical exam and run blood and urine tests to confirm that your symptoms are due to dehydration. The National Institutes of Health suggest taking in small amounts of water throughout the day and using solutions that contain electrolytes to help return your fluid levels to normal. Sports drinks and soda contain high amounts of sugar and are not the best choice.
Skin Changes
As your dehydration worsens, your skin may become less elastic and your eyes may look sunken in. If you lightly pinch your skin, it should go right back into place when you are well hydrated. When you are dehydrated, you may stop sweating and be unable to produce tears. In some cases you can develop a fever. If the victim is an infant, look for sunken fontanelles, which are the soft spots on the top of the head.
Dizziness
As your level of fluids drop, you may start to feel dizzy, confused or lightheaded. Your blood pressure may drop, and your pulse may quicken or slow down. In severe cases you may suffer fainting spells and even become unconscious. If left untreated,dehydration can cause you to go into shock, seizure or a coma. Without immediate medical attention, dehydration can be fatal.
