Dehydration
Dehydration happens when the body loses or uses more fluid than consumption and doesn’t have enough water for regular functions. The body will be dehydrated when one doesn’t replace the lost fluid. Dehydration can happen to all age groups, but it’s more common among babies, children, and older adults. The common cause among babies and children are severe vomiting and diarrhea. Older adults naturally have a low volume of water levels, and medications might increase the chances of dehydration. Minor inconveniences like lung or bladder infections can lead to dehydration among older adults.
Symptoms of dehydration
- Often feeling thirsty
- Strong smelling and dark yellow urine
- Dizziness or tiredness
- Dry lips, eyes, and mouth
- Urinating lesser than four times a day
Risk factors for dehydration
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Diabetes
- Alcohol abuse
- Too much sweat
- Temperature more than 100.4°F
- Consumption of medicines to urinate more
How to reduce dehydration?
Drinking water or fluids might help with dehydration symptoms. But when it’s hard to drink, try taking small sips and gradually drink more. Urinating in pale color is a good sign of drinking enough water. Feeding water with a spoon might help a child during dehydration.
Drink water when there is a high risk of dehydration like vomiting, diarrhea, or sweating.
Dehydration medical emergency
Call of an immediate medical emergency if:
-
- Feeling tired than normal
- Disoriented or confused
- Getting dizzy while standing
- Not urinated all-day
- Weak or rapid pulse
- Fits or seizures
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD
Page last reviewed: 23 JUNE 2022